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Detailed map of courses in this region on next page
EAST The PAGE 25
LEINSTER was for all intents and purposes the recreational
playground for many of Ireland’s literary giants notably Goldsmith,
Beckett, Joyce, Kavanagh, and Behan, all of whom left their
literary imprint there in times past. Its history goes back to the
Vikings and any day of the week you hear of some archaeological dig
or other uncovering remnants of its early past. Leinster occupies
the eastern quarter of the island of Ireland with Dublin, the
country’s capital, it’s largest city. If you take a compass, place
its point in Dublin and draw a 60 mile radius semi-circle - you now
have a broad outline of the area covered by the province. In many
ways Leinster is a microcosm of all the delights you can find in
Ireland - and all within a 60 mile radius of Dublin’s air and sea
ports. Leinster’s golf ranges over traditional and modern, from
links to parkland. The quality of golf is superb. The Irish and
European Opens, and Irish PGA and Golfing Union of Ireland amateur
championships have been hosted by clubs in this region. But not
only that, the 2006 Ryder Cup was played at the K Club in Co.
Kildare. Leinster region a great choice of courses to play!
Counties in the East / Leinster: Carlow,
Dublin,
Kildare,
Laois,
Longford,
Louth,
Meath,
Offaly,
Kilkenny,
Rosslare Golf Club, Co.Wexford.
CORK
DONEGAL
DUBLIN
KILKENNY
LAOIS
LEITRIM
LONGFORD
MEATH
OFFALY
WATERFORD
WESTMEATH
WICKLOW
LONDONDERRY
FERMANAGH
DOWN
MONAGHAN
KERRY
KILDARE
LOUTH
TheWest Region Page 66
Detailed map of courses in this region on next page
SOUTH The PAGE 49
AS any Munster man will tell you, well those from Cork anyway, Cork
City is the ‘real’ capital of Ireland. In the Irish way of things
it’s influence that’s important. And as any Dublin man will tell
you with half his city populated by Corkmen, Cork City influence
wins hands down, ergo, the ‘Real ‘Capital. Limerick, Munster’s
other ‘city’, oversees the point where the River Shannon, meets the
Atlantic Ocean. Limerick and its Shannon estuary has always been a
focal point for travellers to, from and within Ireland. It has been
building aviation bridges since the first Atlantic seaplanes
noisily spattered and splashed their comings and goings at nearby
Foynes. And rugby ? Well that’s the religion in these parts. The
province of Munster covers the bottom quarter of the island of
Ireland. If you take a line between Waterford and just south of
Galway City, everything below lies in Munster. And some fabulous
golf too - Lahinch, Doonbeg, Ballybunion, Tralee, Killarney,
Waterville, Adare, Fota Island, County Tipperary Golf and Country
Club in Dundrum names which conjure the exotic in Irish Golf. But
there is much more to this impressive selection of Munster’s golf.
Some 89 clubs are distributed throughout the province, each with
its own character and story to tell. The range includes links,
coastal heaths and parklands which will both challenge and
enthral.
Counties in the South / Munster: Clare,
Cork,
Kerry,
Limerick,
Tipperary,
Waterford.
Dromoland Castle Golf & Country Club, Co. Clare.
Cork Golf Club, Co. Cork.
Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, Co. Kerry.
Detailed map of courses in this region on next page
WEST The PAGE 67
THIS is the wildly beautiful western quarter of Ireland. It
includes counties Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo. It
is noted for its extravagant beauty, its mountain, sea, and lake
scenery often criss crossed with tiny fields and bright dry stone
walls The Atlantic’s gigantic surf tossed waves crash along the
province’s western shoreline, while the River Shannon flows gently
along its eastern in land boundary. A dramatically indented
coastline is home to the province’s formidable array of links –
Connemara,Carne, Enniscrone, Strandhill and Co.Sligo. This
fistfulof 5 are as spectacular and challenging as any in anypart of
Ireland. Co. Sligo is home to the West ofIreland Amateur Open
Championship while Enniscroneplayed a bridemaid’s role in this
regard a couple of years
ago.There is parkland golf here too and popular courses include
Castle Dargan, Westport, Oughterard, Athlone and Portumna. A
triangular shape with points at Galway, Sligo and Portumna broadly
locates the province of Connaught. Enjoy !
Counties in theWest / Connaught: Galway,
Leitrim,
Mayo,
Westport Golf Club, Co. Mayo.
Ballinrobe Golf Club, Co. Mayo.
Connemara Golf Club, Co. Galway
Detailed map of courses in this region on next page
NORTH The PAGE 75
THE top quarter of the island. A line drawn between Sligo town on
the west and Dundalk on the east coast almost defines the southern
boundary of this 9 county province. It includes the counties –
Antrim, Armagh, Cavan, Donegal, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry,
Monaghan and Tyrone. Of these 5 have a coastline boundary which has
provided ideal links terrain for some of Ireland’s most celebrated
links – Royal County Down, Royal Portrush, Portstewart,
Ballyliffin, Portsalon, Rosapenna, and Donegal, Ardglass and
Castlerock. Some of the greatest golfers have honed their skills on
theses courses such as, Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke, Graeme
McDowell to name but a few. This is a great time to visit, to climb
on its merry-go-round and enjoy. The thing about Ulster is that it
is so compact that you can easily compass your way around its towns
and cities, its shops, restaurants, theatres and ‘watering places’
which are only too willing to entertain. There are over 120 golf
clubs in Ulster with the newest, a Nick Faldo master piece at Lough
Erne, Fermanagh, now taking centre stage. A great selection of
courses to play. Great courses await . . .
Counties in the North / Ulster: Antrim,
Armagh,
Cavan,
Donegal,
Down,
Belvoir Park Golf Club, Co. Antrim.
Rosapenna Golf Club, Co. Donegal
THE NORTH REGION – ULSTER
78 Golf course entries
THE EAST REGION – LEINSTER
28 Golf course entries
THE SOUTH REGION – MUNSTER
52 Golf course entries
THE WEST REGION – CONNAUGHT
69 Golf course entries
92 Map of Ireland showing location of golf clubs
94 Golf course & accommodation index
Page 2 Introduction
4 Local information
6 Golfing Getaways - Some of Greg Allen’s favourite places
12 Ireland’s Great Golfing Challenges - Kevin Markham
18 Golfers Guide to Ireland Awards
20 ‘The’ .. Ambassador ....Paddy O’Looney
21 Curtis Cup - Ireland 2016
22 New Era - Confederation of Golf in Ireland
COMPLETE MAP OF IRELAND ON PAGE 92 GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND
2014
2 PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 GOLFERS
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IRELAND 2014
Golf in Ireland Golf has become one of the fastest growing outdoor
activities in Ireland. With over 420 golf clubs, Ireland has 30% of
the links courses in the world, some in the Top 100, as well as top
championship Parkland courses. Choose from links courses where the
sea fresh breeze invigorates your game or pick an inland jewel with
interesting lake or river shots.Whatever course you choose you are
assured of a warm welcome and an enjoyable experience all year
round.
Green Fees There is great value presently, most clubs have special
rates for groups, sometimes based on inclusive green fees and club
house catering arrangements. Green fee reservations can be made
direct to the selected golf clubs and look out for Golf passes
(Discounted Golf Prices) / Special offers on clubs websites.
Caddies and Caddy Cars Caddies are available at the most popular
championship clubs and prior booking arrangements are recommended.
Caddy (pull) cars can be hired at most clubs and cost about €3 per
round.
Motorised Carts / Golf Buggies Many courses offer motorised carts.
It
is recommended to enquire on availability prior to making
reservation
and book a buggy if required.
Weather Ireland enjoys a temperate climate, which is ideal for
golfers. However, it is advisable to pack your waterproofs as
rain and sunshine are all part of the Irish
climate.
Dress Code While it is advisable to check with the individual club,
smart casual is the accepted uniform for golfers. Jeans and
trainers are frowned upon and in some of the more traditional clubs
a jacket, collar and tie are insisted upon when using the dining
room, so do check in advance.
Soft Spikes and Handicap Certificates A good proportion of golf
clubs now have a soft spikes only policy, so do check in advance.
Also, handicap certificates are becoming the accepted norm, so if
you have one from your club, bring it along.
Currency / Credit Cards Main stores, hotels and restaurants in
Ireland will accept the majority of credit cards/laser cards.
However, it is always advisable to carry some € (euro) and in
Northern Ireland £ (sterling), many smaller accommodation
establishments such as B&B’s and guesthouses may not accept
credit cards/laser cards.
IrishWhiskey No visit to Ireland would be complete without at least
“sampling” some IrishWhiskey. Whiskey – spelt with an “e” in
Ireland - is said to have been invented in Ireland as far back as
the 6th century and since then it has been part of the landscape,
culture and history of this country. IrishWhiskeys are in many ways
very different to their Scottish and American cousins, they are
superbly smooth and the selection and diversity reflect not only
the Distillers’ age-old expertise, but also Ireland’s heritage and
unspoilt countryside.Why not combine your stay in Ireland with an
evening spent sampling some of those wonderful whiskeys in the
company of an IrishWhiskey Expert who will combine knowledge and
expertise with plenty of stories and Irish humour. Log on to
www.irishwhiskeyevent.com for more information.
GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND 2014 Annual - Published by
Portside Publications Limited, 7 Cornelscourt Business Centre,
Cornelscourt, Dublin 18, Ireland.
Tel: +353 1 289 7750. Fax: +353 1 289 8229.
Email:
[email protected].
Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the
compilation of this brochure. Portside Publications cannot
however accept responsibility for errors or omissions but
where such are brought to our attention, future publications
will be amended accordingly.
Contractual arrangements are made with the owners of
premises and courses. Any complaints should be addressed
in the first instance to the owners of the premises. Failing
satisfaction, contact a Tourist Information Office. In the
case of an alleged overcharge, the receipt should be
presented. Don’t forget to write to the owners with your
comments on the general service you experienced. Your
compliments and your constructive criticisms will be taken
seriously to ensure an even better product next year.
The information in this publication may not be distributed,
copied, stored in a computerised system, or used in any
form for commercial or promotional purposes, or for any
purpose whatsoever, other than by the publisher or those
contracted to provide services to the publisher.
2013
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COMPLETE MAP OF IRELAND ON PAGE 92 GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND
2014
4 PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 GOLFERS
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Ireland, there is golf for all on the Emerald
Isle. To help you select the clubs of your
choice the courses are set in alphabetical
order in each region, giving details of the
services available at each.
at the time of going to press, it is advisable
to contact the clubs in advance for
confirmation of exact fees and dates.
The accommodations listed in this guide
have been submitted by approved premises
only. The rates quoted in the
accommodation section of this guide are
per person based on two people sharing a
twin or double room, on a bed and
breakfast basis. Self catering
rental unless otherwise stated.
There are a selection of restaurants listed
in this guide, the standard of food in most
establishments is very good and ask about
“Early Bird” / “Specials” / ‘Value Menus”.
They are located after the accommodations
listings in the relevant sections.
Golf Course Information Symbols explained:
Course Type (Parkland, Links) Number of Holes Par of course Club
shop
Driving range Club hire Caddy hire Buggy hire Soft spikes
only
Accommodation Information Symbols explained:
Number of bedrooms TV in bedroom Full bar licence Swimming pool Gym
Spa
Conference facilities WiFi available Free car parking Evening
entertainment Travel agent booking
Course on-ste Arrange hire of clubs Arrange tee-times
Tennis on-site Angling facilities (nearby / on-site) Horse riding
(nearby - on-site)
Restaurant Information Symbols explained:
Vegetarian dishes Gluten free Service chargeSCGF
80
18
7218
222
When phoning counties Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Fermanagh or
Tyrone from overseas, insert your local international access
code
followed by 44 and delete the zero in front of the local area code.
For the rest of Ireland the same format applies, but replace 44
with 353.
The Europe Hotel & Resort, Fossa, Killarney, Co. Kerry T: 064
66 71300 E:
[email protected] W: www.theeurope.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheEurope
Host venue of the 16th National Golf Tourism Conference & 2013
Gala Irish Golf Awards
Official Hotel of the Irish Open 2010/2011
CartonHouse This is one of the most progressive and innovative
resorts in Europe that has two distinctly different championship
courses one of which, the Montgomerie, has staged the Irish Open on
three occasions in 2005, 2006 and 2013. The sister O’Meara course
staged the Irish Amateur Open in 2004 in which a still growing
young teenage Rory
McIlroy shot 67 in the final round less than a week after his 15th
birthday, to claim a top ten finish.
So in just over ten years, Carton House Resort has already
something of a storied history although the estate itself has a
distinctly longer one stretching back more than two
centuries.
The evolution of Carton House from a
There are very few elements of the downturn over the past five to
six years that we can point towards as a ‘positive’ but for the
international visitor or someone looking to take a golf
holiday
at home, the radical adjustments in the golf economy mean there has
probably never been such good value on such a wide scale in so many
Irish resorts. It was a point hammered home to me recently while I
was on a break in Portugal where, as luck would have it, the
weather was more typical of theWest of Ireland than theWestern
Algarve. It gave me a fresh appreciation for the Irish golf holiday
experience which is less dependent on weather (for reasons we all
know about and prepare for) and thereby has to be judged in the
context of what’s on offer both on and off the course, and often
long into the night. For the most part, Irish golf resorts offer a
more rounded experience than almost anywhere in the world and often
one which lasts as long after the round is finished, as anyone
could wish for. In Britain, there are many resorts and great
courses comparable to what’s on offer in Ireland but in truth, you
generally pay more for the privilege. North America, Asia,
Australia and South Africa offer high quality but again often at a
price so while Ireland remains as competitive as it is right now,
it can draw in more of the middle- spend golfer looking for value
and quality with the added bonus of enjoying the very special
experience of playing golf in Ireland. As long as the course,
clubhouse and accommodation standards are upheld in these still
difficult trading times, the resourcefulness that has been shown in
the last five years will surely stand to the industry here when the
hoped-for sustained recovery is upon us. Thankfully, even through
tough times, there are still many great places to stay and play in
Ireland and here, in no particular order, are some of the very
best.
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6 PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 GOLFERS
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Ph ot o: M ax w el lP ho
to gr ap
Carton House, Co. Kildare
relatively run down stately home when it was bought by the Lee
Mallaghan in 1977, to modern resort has been nothing short of
extraordinary and bears the mark of a passionate family business. I
remember visiting the estate and seeing the golf course development
plans for the first time in 2001 and when told of their ambitions
for the almost completely flat land at the front of the estate, I
could never have envisaged what would eventually become the
Montgomerie Course – an audacious take on the inland links genre of
design.
Montgomerie was there that day and the passion he brought to that
project shone through in the eventual execution of the plans and
the ‘Monty’, which has subsequently staged three Irish Opens, is a
unique, daunting and terrific test of pure shot-making.
The O’Meara course is on a different kind of land which has true
parkland credentials and wends its way over undulating ground with
many sylvan features until you reach the 14th, 15th and 16th which
are as enjoyable and beautiful a stretch of inland holes as you
will find in Ireland.
The re-routing of the first and eighteenth holes has bolstered and
beefed up the O’Meara course to the extent that it is widely tipped
to stage an Irish Open soon.
While in the area: Play Luttrellstown Castle. Since the redesign of
the course in 2007 by Donald Steel and Tom McKenzie, the fine
original routing has been heavily remodelled and grown some muscle
to elevate it into the elite category of Irish parklands.
Onamedium/luxury budget: Stay in Carton House, a unique four star
hotel that blends a bold modern structure with the old house in a
truly innovative seamless way and has real luxury touches and a
relaxed welcoming ambiance. For fine value quality accommodation:
The Courtyard, Leixlip
CastlemartyrHotel andResort I passed through the town of
Castlemartyr last April and had heard a great deal about Ron
Kirby’s inland links and how authentic it
was, but had kept putting a visit on the long finger. So I planned
a stay in the hotel in late summer, played the course twice and
found that it exceeded my expectations.
It is unlike any other inland links that I have experienced because
it truly looks like a course by the sea but with slightly softer
and more generous amounts of grass under foot on the fairways and
greens.
It is a very smart use of the land from the relatively gentle
opening short par four to the tough finishing stretch over the
closing three holes. Throughout is a varied, fair and always
interesting challenge, offering respite on occasion like the short
par four 9th while then immediately testing you to the utmost on
the very next hole, the difficult long winding par four 10th, which
is one of the best on the course.
There’s good food in the ultra modern clubhouse and the hotel
offers old world charm with ultra modern touches in the opulent
rooms.
While in the area: Cork City is only 20 minutes away and you
approach it from the east driving from Castlemartyr so Cork Golf
Club on Little Island is a must play. OnaMediumand Luxury budget:
Stay in Castlemartyr. For fine value accommodation: Midleton Park
Hotel and Sundown House B &B Kilmountain.
GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND 2014 INDEX STARTS ON PAGE 92
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Mount Juliet The Mount Juliet experience begins as soon as you
drive through the gates. Even before this Jack Nicklaus course
became the benchmark for standards of greenkeeping and excellence,
there was something about the atmosphere of Mount Juliet that set
it apart.
The hotel and clubhouse both possess a relaxed luxurious feel and
the golf course, with its wide fairways and big greens manages to
cater for most standards while also being challenging enough to
stage three Irish Opens, two AmexWorld Championships and a Shell
Wonderful World of Golf.
The most beautiful parts of the course run from the tree-lined
second to the
Mount Juliet, Co. Kilkenny
watery fourth hole while on the back nine, the par three 14th and
the closing two holes are great examples of trademark Nicklaus
design features that can also be seen in his home course at
Muirfield Village in Ohio.
Mount Juliet opened in 1991 when the economics of the country were
challenging enough and the golf resort model in Ireland was
relatively untried. That may be one of the reasons it has come
through the recession in good health.
Playing Mount Juliet is an experience rather than a day’s golf. The
clubhouse, hotel and even the practice ground are set in true
sylvan beauty. If you love golf in Ireland, this is a must play
experience.
While in the area: Play nearby Gowran, a fine parkland, which wends
its way in and around the racecourse. It was designed by Jeff
Howes, who also had a strong hand in the construction of Mount
Juliet. Just fifteen minutes down the road is Kilkenny Golf Club
which is a fine example of a traditional Irish parkland course.
OnaMedium/ Luxury budget: Stay at Hunter’s Yard/Rose Garden
Cottages/ Mount Juliet House. For fine quality value accommodation:
Stay at nearby Abbey House, Jerpoint.
AdareManor I had heard about Adare Manor many years before I
eventually played it for the first
“Irish golf resorts offer amore rounded
experience than almost anywhere in the world”
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time in 2001. By the time I finished the round, I was astonished
that such a grand scale tree-lined course existed in Ireland. It
felt as though one of the great American parklands had been
transplanted in County Limerick.
Before playing Adare, I had always gone with the received wisdom
that in Ireland, we do links courses especially well, but playing
Adare made me feel that we had an inland course to rival our links
‘royalty’ in terms of challenge, design and natural beauty.
What makes Adare particularly special is that it’s one of those
rare layouts that starts well and then gets better and better,
culminating in the truly dramatic par five 18th with the green set
beneath the Manor walls, guarded by an ancient Cedar of Lebanon
with the daunting River Maigue separating the fairway from the wide
but shallow putting surface.
The rolling terrain of the 13th hole through a tunnel of trees is
probably my favourite parkland par four in Ireland and the drive
off the 9th tee with the Manor in the background is one of the
great vistas in Irish golf.
Adare has staged two Irish Opens and two JP McManus Pro Ams and has
been lauded by many of the best players in the world with good
reason. It is one of a handful of Irish parklands which bear
comparison to the very best resort courses in the world.
While in the area: A wonderful trio of links courses, Doonbeg,
Lahinch and Ballybunion are all within roughly an hour’s drive.
OnaMedium/Luxury budget: Stay in a group in the cottages near the
clubhouse or in one of the luxury serviced houses near the 7th
fairway. Some of the competitive golf packages make the
extraordinary 160 year old Manor House a viable option even on a
‘medium’ budget. The Dunraven Arms is a great alternative. For fine
quality value accommodation: Fitzgerald’sWoodlands House
Hotel
KClub Mention the words ‘K Club’ in golf company outside of Ireland
and it is clear it has achieved a recognition level as one of the
places to stay and play in Ireland. That status was hard-earned.
From the staging of European Opens every year from 1995 to 2007 and
of course the Ryder Cup match of 2006, the K Club has earned its
stripes.
This is a resort which has been ranked in top ten in the world in a
CNN poll. There are two completely different looking layouts – the
treelined Palmer (or Ryder Cup course as it is generally referred
to) and the much more open but no less challenging Smurfit
Course.
It’s hard to believe that both were built on predominantly flat
land. Great
earthmoving work and tree planting was needed to create the Palmer
which has matured superbly over the twenty or more years of its
existence into the undulating leafy beauty it is today.
Even more land movement was required on the Smurfit course which is
built on more open country and thereby its definition owes a great
deal to the tall grasses off the fairway along with high mounding
and a major water feature to the right of the 7th hole.
While it remains a five star product, the K Club is now a
relatively affordable treat and few courses on either side of the
Atlantic which have staged the Ryder Cup in the last 30 years are
as well-priced in terms of green fees and packages as the
Palmer.
Given the historic nature of the Ryder Cup matches played there, it
is a truly special experience to walk in the footsteps of Europes’
heroes of 2006.
While in the area: Play Killeen Castle which is within half an
hour’s drive. It’s a Jack Nicklaus signature course which staged
the Solheim Cup in 2011 and is a true five star golf experience at
a reasonable price. Also, within half an hour’s drive is the
excellent Seve Ballesteros/Jeff Howes designed Heritage course in
Killenard County Laois, which is a 5 star resort with a golf
academy on site. Ona Luxury Budget: Stay in the K Club and check
out their packages which offer real value for what you will
experience. For fine value quality accommodation: Lawlor’s Hotel,
Naas
Fota IslandResort Since it last staged the Irish Open in 2002, Fota
Island’s smart and varied layout has matured beautifully and bears
comparison
Adare Manor Resort, Co. Limerick
The Kildare Hotel, Spa & Country Club, Co. Kildare
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PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 9 GOLFERS
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to the very best parkland courses in the country.
Golf has been played here for over a century but it was only in
1993 that the current routing came into existence under the design
of Christy O’Connor Junior and Peter McEvoy.
A substantial upgrading in 1999 under the eye of Jeff Howes
involved serious re- working of the green complexes and it reached
a standard which enabled it to stage two successful Irish Opens in
2001 and 2002.
It has an open aspect in places which helps instill confidence in
the novice golfer and yet the excellent varied routing allied with
those fine green complexes makes it much harder to score on than
would readily be anticipated.
The sylvan beauty of the surroundings, the cosy nature of the
clubhouse, the chic modern five-star Fota Island hotel and the
informality of the ambiance makes it one of the great long term or
short term stays in the Irish landscape of golf resorts.
There are 27 holes here, with the Deerpark 18 forming the
traditional Irish Open course.
Within 300 metres walk of the clubhouse is an excellent golf
academy.
While in the area: Play Cork Golf Club at Little Island. This Harry
Colt gem is just about as good a member-owned parkland course as
you will find in Ireland with the shoreline, a quarry and strong
movement in the land offering a varied routing. A substantial
upgrading of the course almost two years ago, which involved the
rebuilding and reshaping of the bunkers has substantially enhanced
this
great traditional Irish parkland beauty. Medium/Luxury budget: Stay
at the Fota Island resort. For fine value quality accommodation:
Commodore Hotel Cobh.
FaithleggHouseHotel andGolfClub It’s a personal viewpoint, but I
always tend to favour the look of a golf course right outside the
front of a hotel. In Faithlegg, the 18th green and first tee are
within yards of the facade of the old house which dates back to
1783.
Over 200 years later, in 1993, the resort opened with a deceptively
gentle looking parkland golf course which has strong enough design
elements, courtesy of Patrick Merrigan’s fine greensites, to stage
the Irish Ladies Open twice in 2000 and 2001 - the former event
being won on a modest total of 6 under par by eight-time European
Solheim Cup player, Sweden’s Sophie
Gustafson. Faithlegg is blessed with rolling terrain
which sweeps down to the River Suir Estuary and a features many
grand old trees. It has matured very well in 20 years and is now a
great example of what a resort course should be – playable for all
handicaps but challenging for very good players, thanks mainly to
the slick undulating greens.
The Hotel is at the upper end of the four star range and has a
destination restaurant, the award winning Roseville Rooms.
Onamedium/Luxury budget: Stay in Faithlegg House For fine value
quality accommodation: For groups especially, Faithlegg own self-
catering houses.
DruidsGlen Is there a better or tougher par four hole in Ireland,
or indeed anywhere in the world than the devilishly difficult
dogleg 471 yard 13th, in Druids Glen? Is there a prettier parkland
par three in Ireland than the 12th?
When Druids Glen was opened, it hit the ground running with the
announcement of an Irish Open to be staged there within a year of
the completion of construction. Built on a site of great potential,
the budget was large and the scope of Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddoick’s
design was extensive. The cost alone of blasting a swathe of
granite to create the 13th hole is reported to have come in at
£300,000.
In truth, Druids Glen has a lot more going for it than simply a
number of spectacular holes. It is eminently playable for the most
part by a wide variety of handicaps and although there are some
severely difficult tee shots, most notably on the 13th
Faithlegg House Hotel, CoWaterford.
Druids Glen, Co.Wicklow.
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and 17th, the enjoyment factor is one of the highest you will find
on any course in Ireland and that is largely down to the emphasis
on strong greenkeeping standards and also the imaginative planting
of shrubs, gorse and flowers which are framed by the high number of
mature old trees on the site.
Still not 20 years old, Druid’s Glen gets better year on year and
it is an extraordinary large scale parkland creation.
The resort also has the robust, muscular and even more challenging
Druid’s Heath set on more open exposed land. Its interesting design
on a fine site is like a hybrid of heathland and parkland. From the
first shot to the last it is a relentlessly uncompromising tough
and demanding challenge.
While in the area: Play the European Club which is simply one of
Ireland’s very finest links courses and has a worldwide reputation
for excellence. Also take in the fine 36 holes at Powerscourt which
has two long, challenging fine courses. The East Course is arguably
Peter McEvoy’s best creation while theWest Course is designed by
David McLay Kidd, of Bandon Dunes fame. Onamedium/Luxury budget:
Stay in the Druids Glen resort For fine value quality
accommodation: Chester Beatty Inn, Ashford.
Ballyliffin Arriving in Ballyliffin is like no other experience in
the golfing landscape of Ireland. The two courses, lying side by
side, look like they should be miles apart because
while Glashedy is carved out through high dunes, the Old Links
moves more naturally and sympathetically with the undulations of
the land and a flat lie is a rare thing on its lumpy bumpy
fairways.
If you are a 36 hole-a -day golfer, this is pretty close to golf
nirvana for links traditionalists.
While Ballyliffin is not not strictly a resort, the link-up in
terms of golf and accommodation packages with the nearby four star
Ballyliffin Lodge & Spa makes this one of the great destination
golf venues in the country.
The Inishowen Peninsula has a relaxed easy vibe about it that is
unique, even by Donegal standards.
The influence of Pat Ruddy is again evident here with his Glashedy
design among the most admired in his considerable portfolio. It is
less extreme in terms of penalty than his designs at the European
or Sandy Hills and it is a joy to play.
And so too is the Old Course which was lengthened and subtly
re-modelled in the last ten years by Faldo Design with a strong
input from Sir Nick himself. It now stretches to around 7,000 yards
from the back tees and is probably among the most under-rated
courses in the country.
Onamediumaccommodation budget: The golf packages at Ballyliffin
Lodge and Spa. For high quality value accommodation: McGrory’s
Culdaff.
Rosapenna Golf has been played in Rosapenna since the
end of the 19th century when Old Tom Morris was commissioned to lay
out a links on the shores of Sheephaven Bay. A hotel was built
shortly afterwards and the course was then modified by Harry Vardon
and James Braid.
It possesses quite a history especially by comparison to most Irish
resorts which are, for the most part, barely twenty years
old.
Rosapenna has survived two wars, economic depressions too numerous
to count and the burning down of the original hotel in 1962 to
emerge as one of the most robust resorts in Ireland in spite of
it’s relatively remote location.
The Casey family bought the property in 1981 and it has grown and
developed significantly with the addition of the Sandy Hills course
along with substantial adjustments and improvements to the Old Tom
Morris Course.
Sandy Hills is a severe but eminently fair challenge and is really
a wonderful golf experience. Bring your very best golf though
because this is a course with few bail-out options. The hand of Pat
Ruddy’s design is strongly evident here and there are reminders of
themes present at Ruddy’s world-renowned European Club
inWicklow.
Recently, the Caseys have purchased the 36 hole St Patrick’s
complex just two miles away meaning there is the potential that the
resort could have 81 holes at some point in the future because nine
holes of the original Old Tom Morris course have been
preserved.
While in the area: Play Portsalon which has been re-designed by Pat
Ruddy. And, although it’s a bit of a
Ballyliffin, Co. Donegal.
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drive, don’t miss Narin and Portnoo which is understated,
underrated and utterly unmissable. Onamediumbudget& for fine
value aswell: Stay at the Rosapenna Hotel
Glasson When Glasson opened almost 20 years ago, it was regarded
widely as a project that owed more to a dream than a realistic
ambition.
In 1993, Tom Reid turned his farm by Lough Ree into a golf course
with the help of Christy O’Connor Junior whose design, which was
aimed at maximising the wonderful views of the lake, comfortably
stands the test of two decades.
It is no longer a hidden gem. It has twice hosted a European
Challenge Tour event and in 2011 was recognised by the Irish Golf
Tour Operators Association as their Resort of the Year.
The hotel, which incorporates the 230 year old farmhouse, is both
homely and comfortable and there’s a sense that the staff cannot do
enough for you. It is a truly family run business and it is all the
better for it.
While in the area: Play Mullingar, one of the finest of Ireland’s
parklands, designed originally by the legendary James Braid.
Onamediumbudget: Stay In the Glasson Golf and Country Club.
The golf/accommodation packages are among the most competitive you
will find.
MountWolseley This is one of Christy O’Connor Junior’s strongest
designs and has matured well over the years. MountWolseley looks
and feels every bit as challenging in places as the best of
Ireland’s resort parklands which is a testament to the quality of
the rolling landcape, the strong design and the ambition of the
Morrissey family who own the resort. The muscular varied challenge
of the front nine evolves into a rolling back nine which features
two of the best holes on the course, the par 3 11th over water and
the short par four 14th through a tree-lined valley.
The course begins and finishes in front of the hotel and it
effectively wraps around the main building - a feature which makes
avid golfers chomp at the bit to get out there and play it as soon
as they arrive.
While in the area: Carlow, just ten miles faway, is a must-play
course. Before the arrival on the Irish golf landscape of high
budget commercial parkland resorts in the early 1990’s, Carlow was
widely regarded as the finest inland course in the country. Having
played it recently, it has lost none of it’s lustre and quality of
design. Onamediumbudget: Stay at MountWolseley which has some
very attractive golf packages.
HiltonTemplepatrick When David Jones and David Feherty came
together for an all-too-brief golf design partnership, they
combined to produce this excellent parkland resort course which has
a capacity to surprise and keep a golfer’s concentration on edge
from a deceptively easy looking first hole all the way to a fine
risk and reward par 5 18th. It has big, firm and fast greens which
roll all over the place without ever being overcooked in terms of
undulation.
It’s seriously and consistently challenging, even from the forward
tees and it’s always interesting with lots of variation.
While in the area: Nearby Belfast has some of the best parklands on
the island of Ireland. None are better than Malone, which is, for
many, the best of its kind in Northern Ireland. Not far behind in
terms of challenge and charm are Belvoir Park and Royal Belfast.
OnaMediumbudget: Stay on site at the Hilton, which has a fine pool
and an excellent gym used by many of Northern Ireland’s top GAA,
rugby and soccer teams.
See pages 18 and 19 for The Golfers Guide to Ireland
Awards
MountWolseley Spa & Country Club, Co. Carlow
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Ireland’s Great Golfing Challenges IIreland’s golf Challenges are
not exactly a
secret and yet they are rarely discussed during the regular weekend
golf round. I
have yet to figure out why, for this is a remarkably entertaining
yet competitive environment for golfers of all abilities. You play
many of Ireland’s finest courses over three or four days and the
green fees are a fraction of their usual price.
Go as a three ball to the north west, as a fourball toWaterford, or
gather a gang together and head for the events in the north. You
could find yourself playing on Royal County Down, Lough Erne,
Enniscrone,
Ballyliffin or The Heritage, to name a few. You play for prizes of
course – theWest Coast Challenge’s pot is €10,000 – although there
is a distinct feeling that winning is secondary to the pure thrill
of playing some of the best courses in Ireland… if not the
world.
You can play alongside friends, family or strangers, and there are
many stories of how new friendships have been formed and rekindled
on the fairways, year after year.
The blueprint dates back to 1967, when James Brolly (Eglinton
Hotel), Dai Shields (Carric-na-cule Hotel), James McCabe (Dillon
Bass Ltd., Portadown) and Steve Mitchell (Secretary of NE Golf
Alliance) came together to create an event that involved 200
golfers. The sponsor was McCabes of Portadown, known as Remy
Martin, and the
company donated £300 plus miniatures to all players. The Troubles
made things difficult over the years, but hard work saw the
tournament attracting ever greater numbers of tourists to Northern
Ireland. In 2000, 1,040 golfers (820 of whom were visitors) took
part, making it the largest amateur golfing event in Europe. The
name of the event may have changed (Remy Martin, The Black Bush,
and Bushmills Malt Causeway Coast Golf Tournament), but the spirit
of the event has always remained the same.
It took some time for the idea to blossom in Ireland, but several
Challenges have cropped up to offer their verdant fairways and
greens to the world’s golfers… and that is what makes these such
outstanding events: golfers from across the globe come to play
here, boosting our economy and bringing a buzz to local
communities. Just ask anyone who has played in the Dunmore East
Classic where the entire village of Dunmore East hosts some 300
golfers – many from the UK, Canada and South Africa – with
restaurants and bars full to bursting point at night.
The golf format varies between three and fourballs but they are all
Stableford. It means that everyone has a good shot at winning
something.
And then there’s the value on offer: the Coasts of Down Links
Challenge costs £115, while theWest Coast Challenge costs €125.
It’s unbeatable value and it’s the perfect opportunity to have a
few days away with people whose company you enjoy… not to mention
the hospitality of your hosts, wherever you decide to head.
Try one. You won’t know what you’re missing until you do.
Atlantic Coast Challenge 2014 will be this tournament’s fourth
year. The Atlantic Coast Challenge (ACC) ensures that golfers can
roam Ireland’s northern shoreline from east of Belfast (Kirkistown
Castle) to the western tip of the island (Carne). That’s a stretch
of 26 links, among them some of the most acclaimed golf courses in
the world.We are spoiled for choice.
The ACC courses stretch across the coastline of counties Sligo and
Mayo. They may not have the instantly recognisable name or
reputation of the Royals, but these courses are big… big in
thrills, big in drama and big in heart. There are no taller dunes
than at Carne, few courses boast as many remarkable holes as
Enniscrone and you’d be hard pressed to beat the views of Drumcliff
Bay and Benbulben at Rosses Point. This is a
place of breathtaking landscapes and sparkling hospitality… and
that’s just the golf courses. It makes this an unforgettable
golfing experience, which may explain why the Challenge attracts
golfers from as far as the USA and China.
“The opportunity to play these three top links courses is second to
none, and the dates should be imbedded in every golfer’s
diary.What’s more, it’s superb value for money and great craic,
too,” says David O’ Donovan, General Manager, County Sligo Golf
Club.
DETAILS Competition Format: Teams of three: Singles and Team
Stableford. Date: 7 – 9 July 2014 Cost:€139 Accommodation Options:
Broadhaven Bay Hotel/Talbot Hotel in Belmullet; Diamond
By Kevin Markham Author of Hooked: An Amateurs Guide to the Golf
Courses
of Ireland.
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Coast Hotel/Ocean Sands Hotel in Enniscrone; Glass House Hotel in
Sligo. Prize Fund:€2,500 More details:+353 97 82292,
[email protected]
Carne Golf Club Now a 27 hole destination, Carne has stamped its
credentials on world golf thanks to designers Eddie Hackett and
Ally McIntosh, and the passion and commitment of the people of
Belmullet. Giants must have romped across the mighty dunes of
Belmullet, making the designers’ job that much easier. These dunes
are truly enormous, overshadowing you for much of the round and
creating holes that are jaw- dropping in their ambition and so
natural in feel.
Enniscrone This is another of Eddie Hackett’s gems, rolling along
the shores of Killala Bay. The dunes here are mesmerising and they
are home to an enthralling test of links golf. At times it is
terrifying – you will need all your wits about you – but it is
never less than inspiring, and starting at the 12th there’s a
spectacular run for home.
Rosses Point/County Sligo Rosses Point dates back to 1894, and is
host to the annualWest of Ireland Championship. Little has changed
over the years and Rosses Point has the most interesting variety of
holes and changes of pace of any links on the island. It also has
stunning views with the mighty Benbulben ever-present. The changes
in style call for smart shot-making, especially on the back
nine.
CausewayCoastChallenge A trip to our island’s most northern stretch
of golf courses, along the Antrim coast, promises a golfing
extravaganza that mixes wonderful links golf with stunning views.
From Castlerock the Inishowen Peninsula rises to the north-west,
while Ballyliffin is poised on the peninsula itself, playing host
to Ireland’s two most northern links. Portrush has the Donegal
mountains and seascapes of rocks and castle, while the Glens of
Antrim and distant Scottish mountains are visible on a clear day
from Ballycastle.
Now in its 47th year, this is the oldest Challenge in Ireland, and
Europe too. The tournament accommodates 850 golfers and boasts its
own App and a Hole-In-One
teaser (the prize is a trip to the US Masters). It also has one
particularly rewarding extra for golfers from outside Northern
Ireland… you can enjoy a practice round on three of the courses
included in the price. The format requires your four ball to split
up so you play with unknown golfers… which creates friendships and
stories that cross continents and last for years. Raymond, the
tournament organiser, confirms this:
“It’s the camaraderie and craic of meeting old friends from years
gone by, and people come back time and again.We have two golfers
who have been coming every year for the last 30 years. There’s just
this great atmosphere as golfers from around the world are
reunited. That’s why this tournament has stood the test of
time.”
It is also worth factoring in the Giant’s Causeway, the
Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Bushmills Distillery… which
order you choose to visit them in is up to you.
DETAILS Competition Format: Teams of four: Singles and Team
Stableford. Date: 2 - 6 June 2014 Cost: £150 Accommodation options
include: The Lodge Hotel, Bush Town Hotel, Ramada Portrush, and
plenty of private accommodation. Prize Fund:Approx £4,500. More
details: www.causewaycoastgolf.com,
[email protected]
Ballycastle With its stunning views and interesting mix of holes,
Ballycastle offers golfers a very different experience to the other
three.
There are links holes here for sure (Hog’s Back is a violent
beast), but they are squeezed between parkland and headland holes.
The holes up to and down from the headland promise the most
thrilling shots of the day.
Ballyliffin (Old) Ballyliffin boasts two of the best links on the
island. The Old plays through the lower dunes, over crumpled
fairways and deep bunkers. Bump and run is the soul of links golf,
but here it may cause angst as balls wander off fairways and away
from greens at will. It is thrilling golf nonetheless and not as
tough as its more muscle-bound sibling (Glashedy), which makes it a
friendlier challenge. The format at Ballyliffin will be a shotgun
start – which should liven up proceedings.
Castlerock Castlerock is a brilliant links of erratic dunes,
intriguing shapes and remarkable holes. The par three 4th – Leg O’
Mutton – may be the hole they talk about, but I’ve always been
intrigued by the 12th with the large whale buried in the fairway.
It changes pace constantly so you rarely settle into a rhythm. Be
sure to ask the locals for a drop of Bishop Daly’s Special
Brew.
Royal Portrush (Valley) The wild rose bushes behind many of the
greens on this low-lying, fast-paced links create tempting but
threatening backdrops. This is no place to run through the green,
nor is it a place for the faint-hearted. The Valley may not carry
the reputation of the Dunluce course (see below) but drifting
beneath the high dunes which wrap around
Carne, Co. Mayo
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this short course promises a different links test.
CoastsofDownLinksChallenge If County Antrim has its Causeway Coast
Challenge, then County Down is well able to match it. The
opportunity to play Royal County Down (RCD) is an amazing
enticement when you consider the Challenge entry fee of £115, but
there is an element of qualification that also adds to the thrill
of this particular event. For you will only play one of the world’s
greatest courses if you score well over Ardglass and Kirkistown
Castle golf clubs on the first two days. There are also live
scoreboards in the clubhouse (and online), so you’ll know whether
you’re going to make the cut. But even those who don’t still get to
play RCD… if just the Annesley links. It may only be a par 66, but
it’s a terrific little links and, by criss-crossing its bigger
sibling a few times, it’s a cruel reminder of what might have
been.
DETAILS Competition Format: Singles Stableford. Two qualifying
rounds, followed by a round at Royal County Down. Date: 23 - 25
April 2014 Cost: £115 Accommodation Options: Slieve Donard is
recommended due to the last day qualification system. Other options
in Newcastle also available. Prize Fund:Over £2,000 More details:
contact one of the clubs.
Ardglass Ardglass is a links/seaside/headland gem, with possibly
the most dramatic salvo of opening holes on the island… ably
assisted by the line of canons pointing you towards the 1st green,
set in a rocky turret. Holes 10, 11 and 12 are thrilling, set
across from the Coney Island made famous by Van Morrison. And the
clubhouse is worth the visit alone.
Kirkistown Castle Make no mistake, Kirkistown Castle may only be a
par 69 but it is a lethal links. There are two hillocks which host
greens and tees in glorious fashion, and from here you will get a
great perspective on the rest of the course. It is worth studying
because there are few places to hide on this James Braid- designed
course. Play straight.
Royal County Down Royal County Down can be summed up in one word:
heaven. This is a links experience that settles in the soul,
combining beauty and danger with magical scenery (Mourne Mountains)
all day long. The blind 9th is often hailed as one of the world’s
most enthralling golf holes, but there are many others, too. Unique
features, such as the bearded bunkers, only serve to emphasise how
special this place is. Now all you have to do is qualify.
DunmoreEastClassic The Deise county has been hosting the Dunmore
East Classic for 22 years. Unlike links courses, which can give you
such a wind-battering golf education, Tramore, Waterford and
Faithlegg golf courses are more gentle and colourful affairs,
coasting between avenues of trees, over streams and alongside
rivers. Dunmore East Golf Club, the fourth course for 2014, slides
across a headland overlooking Dunmore East fishing village.
The tournament is centred, quite literally, in the fishing village
of Dunmore East. Here, golfers enjoy legendary evening hospitality
and entertainment, and it is this that gives the Challenge its
distinctive personality. Over the years the organisers have learned
how best to package the event, combining golf, food and
accommodation.
“The Dunmore East Golf Classic is offering five nights’
accommodation for the price of four to attract new and regular
visitors to stay and play, both on and off the golf course. Our
evening 'Apres Golf’ nights are world famous for their fantastic
ambience and boisterous singalongs. It all emphasises our ' Great
Golf - Great Craic'
Tramore, Co.Waterford.
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motto,” says event organiser, Tony Boland. Hotels, guesthouses and
B&Bs are
stuffed to the gills with regular visitors from the UK, the US,
Germany, Canada and South Africa. By all accounts, the atmosphere
around the village makes this more of a jamboree than a golf
tournament.
DETAILS Competition Format: Teams of four: Singles and Team
Stableford. Additional Singles tournament on 26 April at Waterford
Castle Golf Club. Date: 27 April - 1 May 2014 Cost:€299 (4 dinners
& 4 rounds of golf). A 5 night stay with 4 dinners & 4
rounds of golf costs from €399. Accommodation is based mainly in
the village of Dunmore East, ranging from the Haven Hotel to
B&Bs and self-catering. Other options are also available. Prize
Fund:Over €10,000 inWaterford Crystal More details:
[email protected], Tel: +353 87 9389574
Dunmore East Golf Club Dunmore East slips back and forth across
fairly open, wind-rattling ground before descending to the
signature cliff top holes. Here you’ll encounter a spectacular
backdrop with the village and sea below, and shots that require
real bravery.
Faithlegg This lazy parkland is defined by its estate
location and the River Suir. The start and finish are awash with
mature and elegant oak trees, which provide space and grace in
front of the 18th century mansion/hotel. The middle of the course
is more open and undulating, with the addition of river views, old
stone walls and more big trees.
Tramore Tramore is an easy-paced, rhythmic layout that roves
through dense trees with lots of variety and shape to holes. Of all
the courses it requires the most discipline as trees get a touch
too close, but smart golf will reap great rewards.
Waterford Waterford Golf Club dates back to 1912, and there’s a
classic parkland air about it. It is a short par 71 and its easy
tree-lined rhythm is a pleasure to play. The back nine takes you
slowly up the slopes to the highest point that is the 18th tee and
all the views that offers.
Great Irish LinksChallenge ‘Great’ sums it up in every sense of the
word. This challenge plays over three of Ireland’s most highly
acclaimed links courses – Ballybunion, Doonbeg and Lahinch – and
promises five star treatment from start to finish. Entry costs €620
and our American golfing friends make up roughly 80% of the field.
Indeed, when the tournament was first played in 2010, American
Football legend, Dan Marino, was among the competitors and he
returned in 2011. Other famous
names include Darrius Rucker (of Hootie & The Blowfish fame)
and Ray Allen of the Boston Celtics.
The renowned Lodge at Doonbeg is the centre of attention, with its
multitude of awards (e.g. Conde Nast Traveler’s Number 1 Resort in
Europe 2013) making it almost as big an attraction as the Greg
Norman- designed golf course. Competitors enjoy transportation to
the courses, daily prizes at each venue and nightly
entertainment.
Ray Kearney, Marketing Manager at the Lodge, acknowledges the
wonderful response the tournament has received:
“The Great Links Challenge is now in its fourth year and it has
been a runaway success. The level of entry right from the outset
has been fantastic and that, coupled with the relaxed format of the
event, has made it one which everyone loves. For many participants
it is the cornerstone tournament of their year."
DETAILS Competition Format: Teams of four: Stableford Fourball
Betterball. Date: 11 – 14 May 2014 (Welcome Reception on the 11th)
Cost:€620 Accommodation Options: The Lodge at Doonbeg as well as
numerous others, including Vaughan Lodge Hotel, The 19th Lodge and
self catering options. Prize Fund:Crystal prizes are awarded to
daily and overall winners. More details:
www.greatirishlinkschallenge.com
Doonbeg, Co. Clare.
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Ballybunion The Old Course, cherished by TomWatson, has explosive
dunes and a sea-swaying rhythm that tees off at the 6th hole and
never lets up. It is not that long, which makes it manageable, but
the par threes are tough. The mesmerising back nine delivers a
sweet rollercoaster ride, including the par four 11th – one of the
world’s best holes.
Doonbeg Doonbeg is the glamour resort it was always built to be,
winning countless international awards. The sensational links
weaves through picture-perfect dunes and takes you to the sea
frequently – nowhere more telling than on the brilliant par four
6th, the lethal par three 14th, and the 9th green at the farthest
curve of Doughmore Bay.
Lahinch Lahinch sits alongside Ballybunion with its reputation,
seaside town and staunch advocates. It has the added bonus of a
pair of goats who predict the weather and a rhythm that proves
almost hypnotic. You visit the coastline early, with the Old Tom
Morris holes (Klondyke and The Dell) starting the most tantalising
stretch of holes.
GreatNorth Links The north of the island hosts three excellent
challenges and the Great North Links is one of them. This challenge
sees you playing the mighty Royal Portrush (Dunluce), Ballyliffin
(Glashedy) and Portstewart (Strand). The challenge is very popular
with golfers from Sweden and the UK… Ballyliffin even has a
dedicated page in Swedish on its website.
“The tournament was set up because these three courses are seen as
destinations
of choice by golfers everywhere. It also fits in well with the
clubs at this time of year to offer great value for money,” says
John Farren, Ballyliffin Manager.
There’s the added attraction that these three courses have four
further courses between them… just in case you’re worried about not
playing enough golf. And then there’s the stark beauty of Malin
Head, Ireland’s most northerly point, a short drive north of
Ballyliffin.
DETAILS Competition Format: Teams of four: Singles and Team
Stableford. Date: 8 – 10 October 2014 Cost: £175 Accommodation
Options: See www.ballyliffingolfclub.com Prize Fund: TBC More
details: Tel: 074 937 6119,
[email protected]
Ballyliffin (Glashedy) The stark beauty of Glashedy Rock, rising
out of the Atlantic, combines with the roughly hewn mountains to
give Ballyliffin a raw air and one that is matched by the Pat
Ruddy-designed course. It bears all of his hallmarks, combining
elegance with danger. Golfers must approach greens with care for
bunkers are deep and perfectly positioned.
Portstewart (Strand) Few would argue that Portstewart’s front nine
is among the best on the island. You are thrown straight into a
landscape known as ‘God’s Own Country’, where valleys and tall
dunes help to create holes that are truly tantalising. The new
clubhouse is magnificent, as are the views over the 1st tee from
its balcony.
Royal Portrush (Dunluce) Designed by H.S. Colt in the 1930s, this
masterpiece combines a world-class reputation with some of the
country’s finest holes (5 and 14 most notably). The Dunluce has an
air of greatness and an aura of invincibility which will inspire
you all day long. Be patient as club selection is the key on holes
where you can almost always see what lies ahead.
TheWestCoastChallenge TheWest Coast Challenge will enjoy its 28th
year in 2014. This four day tournament has become an annual
pilgrimage for golfers from Ireland, England and Scotland. It plays
along the dazzling coastline and rolling seascapes of counties
Sligo and Donegal, with an accompanying blaze of fresh north west
breezes and stunning landscapes. Covering Bundoran, Enniscrone,
Donegal and Strandhill, it mixes in four very different links
courses, from the quirkiness of Strandhill to the muscle of
Donegal. The format sees you playing with different golfers over
the four days. It has created long friendships with golfers
returning year after year to reunite with friends. It’s part and
parcel of the Challenge’s overriding spirit, and one that extends
further than you’d expect: some 18 to 24 golfers from Ballybofey
Golf Club make this an annual outing to raise funds. During the
tournament they run a ‘book’ on their scores with all winnings
donated to a county Donegal charity.
“We have donated over €8,000 in the past ten years, which is a
great achievement, and a great credit to all the lads,” says
Alister Henderson.
Enniscrone, Co. Sligo.
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DETAILS Competition Format: Teams of three: Singles and Team
Stableford. Date: Early May 2014, with pre- competition reception.
Cost:€125 (TBC) Accommodation Options:Hotels in Bundoran include
The Great Northern, The Holyrood, and Allingham Arms. The Diamond
Coast Hotel is in Enniscrone. Prize Fund: over €10,000 More
details: www.westcoastchallenge.info
Bundoran Famous for Christy O’Connor Senior hitting
‘every-club-in-the-bag’ to one of the par threes, Bundoran can be a
terror of a links on a windy day. There’s no place to hide (apart
from behind the Great Northern Hotel) on a bumpy, open golf course
that will teach you the art of links golf – pure and simple.
Donegal Donegal is one of those beautiful, idyllic and unspoiled
Irish locations, tucked away on the isolated Murvagh Peninsula. The
views are spectacular and, equally spectacular, is the links course
that glides effortlessly through and over the dunes. Donegal is
often discussed in terms of its length, but this is a very playable
course.
Enniscrone See above.
Strandhill There is something of the genius about Strandhill – a
design and quirkiness that makes this short course one of the most
fun and intriguing to play. That is in no small part down to the
members who designed the course over 80 years ago. Don’t let the
par 69 fool you, for Strandhill is a stern test.
FiveFurtherChallenges The Carlow International Golf Classic is in
its second year. Bunclody, Carlow and MountWolseley are three
impressive but very different parklands, where Carlow is the grand
dame. The price of €149 (tbc) includes three rounds of golf, three
meal vouchers and one gala dinner in early September. The prize
fund is €7,000.
www.carlowtourism.com/golfclassic
The Heart of Down Golf Tournament (two rounds played over Ardglass
and Spa, before the top qualifiers play Royal County Down) has yet
to be confirmed for 2014. The Donegal Links Classic plays over
Ballyliffin (Old), Rosapenna (Old Tom Morris) and Portsalon. The
event takes place from 26 – 28 May 2014, with individual team
Stableford events. Cost €100 for visitors.
www.ballyliffingolfclub.com
The Laois International Golf Challenge is an intriguing mix of four
County Laois golf courses. The four day event, from 19 – 21 May
2014, plays over The Heath, Portarlington and Portlaoise, with the
Seve Ballesteros Heritage course providing the final round. Cost
€100 which includes nightly entertainment programme.
www.golfirelandmidlands.com
For a brilliant touch, that combines links with parkland, try the
Lough Erne & Links Challenge from 21 – 23 July 2014. Teams of
four play over the glamorous Lough Erne, the elegant Donegal, and
the thrilling Narin & Portnoo. Entry costs €140.
www.donegalgolfclub.ie or 074 9734054.
The variety and quality of courses is astounding when you consider
that many of the above venues regularly feature in Ireland’s Top
100 courses, with some making theWorld’s Top 100. Similarly, the
value is remarkable and the price to enter some of the Challenges
is less than the price of playing one of the clubs at regular rack
rates. And while the quality of the courses and the value for money
have to be highly commended, there is one other thing that makes
such Challenges so attractive – and that’s the people who organise
them, the people who play them, and the people who welcome you to
their region of Ireland with open arms.
Ballybunion, Co. Kerry
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2014
18 PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 GOLFERS
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Ulster Region: Royal Belfast Golf Club
Overall Winner Powerscourt Golf Club Connaught Region:
Westport Golf Club
Munster Region: Killarney Golf & Fishing Club
Ulster Region Royal Portrush Golf Club
Munster Region Ballybunion Golf Club
GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND ~AWARDS Best
Parkland Course
Best Links Course
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Lahinch Golf Club
Dromoland Castle
Ballina, Co. Mayo
Ulster Region Roe Park Resort
Overall Winner Carton House
Overall Winner Dundrum House Golf Club Connaught Region:
Ballinrobe Golf Club Munster Region: Douglas Golf Club
Best Hidden Gem
Midland & West Region Glasson Country House Resort
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2014
20 PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 GOLFERS
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I n the mid 1990s, when Jean kennedy Smith was US Ambassador to
this country, I happened to attend an early-
morning media gathering at Iveagh House in Dublin. Though it had to
do essentially with the impending Columbia space shuttle mission,
there was a fascinating golfing dimension.We were informed that
through the influence of Paddy O’Looney, the Chief Executive of
Swing, astronaut Lt Col Jim Halsell would be carrying on board a
pennant incorporating the logos of nine Irish golf clubs. All of
which we greeted with a quiet smile. It was typical of the sort of
exposure O’Looney achieved for golf tourism in the South-West of
this fair land, from the time he took over at the helm of SWING in
1986, until his retirement in 2011.
Prior to that, I had got to know him when he competed in various
amateur championships, going back four decades ago. At a time when
Connacht were very often cannon-fodder for the other provinces, I
remember O’Looney competing in the annual interpros as a member of
Connemara GC in 1974, ‘75 and ‘76. During that period, he won five
of the 16 matches he played for Connacht, which was a fairly decent
return in the circumstances.
It was while working in the hotel industry in theWest that he met
and married Joey on October 5th 1973 and they’ve been together ever
since, celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary in October 2013.
And typically mischievous, Paddy decided that Napoleon was the only
appropriate name for their large, lovable English sheepdog, given
that Josephone happened to be the lady of the house. Napoleon was
golf- trained, naturally, and lived to the grand old age of 16.
They made a great trio in the Liscannor Golf Hotel where I happened
to take my family on holiday one year in the early 1980s. Indeed
Joey and I still laugh about the time when, in an attempt at
occupying the children on a rainy day, I put a film called ‘Porkys’
on the hotel video, thinking it was aWalt Disney production,
perfect for children. Fortunately, it had not reached its more
lurid segments when I realised my mistake and quickly replaced it
with more innocent fare.
When Denis Brosnan of the Kerry Group decided to launch SWING as a
promotional vehicle for golf in the SouthWest, O’Looney became its
inaugural Chief Executive. And it proved to be an inspired
appointment, given his popularity throughout the industry in this
country, his enduring skill as a category-one player and his
insight into the tourism industry, especially the lucrative, US
market. He could talk the talk.
Like the occasion in 2000 when he and Manuel Pinero shared memories
of Bing Crosby during a competition for delegates attending the
Third World Golf Tourism Congress at Montecastillo, Spain. It was
where Pinero, as a local golfing icon, presented the prizes, along
with the mayor of Jerez. The winner happened to be the former
Connacht interprovincial, with the admirable, gross score of
level-par 72 and the runner-up was none other than Victor Garcia,
older brother of Sergio, who was reigning Irish Open champion at
the time. With regard to Crosby - O’Looney recalled to Pinero how,
as a 15-year-old juvenile member of Portmarnock, playing off five,
he had the good fortune to meet the Old Groaner who was visiting
the club along with his Irish manager, George O’Reilly. Some years
later, in 1976, Crosby played golf in another European capital -
for the last time. It so happened that his playing partner in
Madrid had been Pinero, when he died of a heart-attack after the
round. "Not surprisingly, Manuel still remembered every detail of
that sad occasion," O'Looney recalled.
In July 2007, O’Looney spearheaded the 21st anniversary of
Brosnan’s vision in bringing together the leading five golf clubs
of the South-West - Lahinch, Ballybunion, Tralee, Killarney
andWaterville - under one
marketing umbrella.
Over those years, SWING generated about €22 million in green-fee
revenue for its member clubs, in conjunction with other leading
Irish facilities. And from a marketing standpoint, confidence in
the quality of their product was reflected in the slogan: "Come and
experience the flavour of how we enjoy our golf in Ireland at your
golf club today”.
A measure of the change from the modest, 211 rounds generated by
SWING back in 1986, was that it could boast more than 20,000 rounds
for the 2006 season, with a significant increase for the opening
months of 2007.
Then there were the invaluable comments from two world figures
whose words O’Looney got permission to use in marketing material.
Tiger Woods said: “A whole new world was opened for me by the
wonderful links courses of Ireland’s south- west. Mark O’Meara and
myself were really taken by the warmth of the Irish hospitality.
Wherever we went, people seemed genuinely pleased to see us, not
simply as visiting golfers, but as new-found friends.” O'Meara
said: “In 1998, the SWING courses helped me realise the dream of a
lifetime, when I went on to capture the British Open at Royal
Birkdale. So, I could hardly give them a greater recommendation.
Golf in the Emerald Isle took on a special appeal for me from the
time I competed in the Irish Open at Portmarnock in 1987. Later, at
venues such as Waterville, Ballybunion and Lahinch, the welcome has
always been wonderful.”
Indeed his contribution to Irish golf tourism has been richly
significant. So, at the end of a productive career, it is
especially sad that well-earned retirement has not been kind to
Paddy, who has been the victim of a series of health set-backs in
recent years.
His many friends in golf, here and beyond these shores, will wish
him a change of fortune.
Dermot Gilleece
Paddy O’Lonney
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DUN Laoghaire Golf Club has been selected to host the 2016 Curtis
Cup Match between Great Britain &
Ireland and the United States of America. Following a rigorous
review of possible
venues, the Ladies’ Golf Union (“the LGU”) selected Dun Laoghaire
to host this prestigious international event.
The Curtis Cup is the best known team trophy for lady amateur
golfers and is organised by the LGU when it is played in Great
Britain & Ireland.
The first Curtis Cup Match was played in 1932 at theWentworth Club
in England, and was won by the American team. The match was last
held in Ireland in 1996, when it was played on the Killeen Course
at Killarney Golf & Fishing Club. This year’s match at The
Nairn Golf Club in Scotland attracted a large and noisy crowd of
home and international spectators.
Dun Laoghaire’s selection for the 2016 match was announced during
the
closing ceremony. “We are delighted that the next home Curtis Cup
match will be held in Ireland in 2016,” commented Shona Malcolm,
CEO of the LGU. “Dun Laoghaire Golf Club submitted a very
compelling bid for hosting the 2016 match. The quality of the
course and top class facilities at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club, coupled
with the commitment and enthusiasm of the club’s team, convinced us
that we were selecting a great venue.”
A number of the best courses in Great
Britain & Ireland were considered as part of a competitive
bidding process. In being selected, Dun Laoghaire Golf Club joins
an esteemed list of previous host venues which include Royal County
Down, The Old Course, St. Andrews, Royal St. George’s, Muirfield,
and Royal Liverpool.
The 27-hole championship course at Ballyman Glen, on the border of
counties Dublin andWicklow, was designed by the renowned course
architects at Hawtree Limited. The 102-year-old club moved to
Ballyman Glen in the summer of 2007 from its original 18-hole home
in the Dublin suburb of Dun Laoghaire. The course is complemented
by a 5-star clubhouse, Golf Academy, Driving Range and extensive
practice facilities.
Dun Laoghaire Golf Club is a Members club, with over 1,200 members,
including Men, Ladies and Juniors.
Curtis Cup comes to Ireland in 2016
GB & I Curtis Cup Team 2011 Nairn, Scotland. Photo Carol
Fell.
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2014
The Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI), the Irish Ladies Golf Union
(ILGU) and the Professional Golfers Association (PGA)
join together to form the Confederation of Golf in Ireland
(CGI).
The CGI is a new organisation, purpose of which is to help advance
the sport of golf on the island of Ireland, for the future. The CGI
will complement the work of the associations as well as providing a
necessary combined approach to certain key strategic areas in the
future development of golf in Ireland. The CGI, which is a not for
profit organization and the objectives are
Create and implement a development plan for golf in Ireland.
Respond to the investment requirements of the two Sports Councils,
who are seeking one single application for golf. Provide an
organisation to interact with the Olympic Council of Ireland which
wishes to deal with only one body. Provide support and a "spiritual
home" for aspiring Irish tournament professionals in the early
years of their careers.
Specifically, there is important work to be done to stop the
decline in membership of golf clubs and to start the re-building
process after the economic hardships of recent years. The key to
this will be to bring a new focus to the game and the business of
golf clubs on the island of Ireland.
The CGI announced the appointment of
John Roche as its Director of Golf and Business Development and
will be responsible for drafting and implementing a plan for the
promotion and development of golf in Ireland. John Roche is an
active member of Bray Golf Club and incoming 2014/15
President.
The GGI will engage with various stakeholders, including Affiliated
Golf Clubs, the R&A, Irish Sports Council, Sports Council
of Northern Ireland and other industry bodies and then launch its
plan for the promotion and development of the sport in early
2014.
The Associations have chosen Redmond O'Donoghue to be Chair of the
Confederation for the next three years. Mr. O'Donoghue has been a
senior business figure in Ireland for many years; additionally, he
has been close to golf through his roles as Chairman of Bord Failte
(1999-2001) and as Chairman of Failte Ireland (2008 - to
date).
Mr. John Treacy, CEO of the Irish Sports Council said: "This is a
very welcome and very positive development for golf in Ireland. The
success of the work of the associations is at its most visible in
the world class performances by Irish golfers on the international
stage - particularly during the past six or seven years. The CGI
will build on this outstanding success story and help to provide
additional strategic direction for the sport, throughout the whole
island".
Leo Varadkar, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport added: “I
am delighted to welcome the establishment of the Confederation of
Golf in Ireland. I commend the Golfing Unions and the Irish PGA on
their vision and initiative in bringing the Confederation together.
This is a major step forward in the strategic development of golf
in Ireland. The CGI will support the work of the Golfing Union of
Ireland, the Irish Ladies Golf Union and the Professional Golfers
Association and build on the success of Irish golf across Ireland
and Internationally. I wish all involved with the new venture every
success”.
New era in Irish Golf Confederation of Golf in Ireland ~ CGI
John Roche
"I was very impressed by the openness and willingness of the key
organisations in the sport of golf to engage in such a positive way
to create the new CGI. It's important to point out that the CGI
will, in no way, dilute or weaken the autonomy of the three member
organisations; it will work in a complementary way to address
common objectives and challenges. I very much look forward to
chairing the CGI and to working with John Roche and the Board
Members to advance the cause of Irish golf in the coming
years".
RedmondO’Donoghue
Ireland’s Number 1 Golfers Guide
22 PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 GOLFERS
GUIDE TO
IRELAND 2014
Published Since 1992 Ireland’s No. 1 Golf Guide
www.golfersguide.ie
PROMOTING IRISH GOLF SINCE 1992 23 GOLFERS
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IRELAND 2014
Full Membership and Five-Day Membership available
Golf Societies and Corporate Outings
Welcome All Year Round
GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND 2014 INDEX STARTS ON PAGE 94
Detailed map of courses in this region on next page
EAST The
Goldsmith, Beckett, Joyce, Kavanagh, and Behan, all of
whom left their literary imprint there in times past. Its
history goes back to the Vikings and any day of the week
you hear of some archaeological dig or other uncovering
remnants of its early past. Leinster occupies the eastern
quarter of the island of Ireland with Dublin, the country’s
capital, it’s largest city. If you take a compass, place its
point in Dublin and draw a 60 mile radius semi-circle - you
now have a broad outline of the area covered by the
province. In many ways Leinster is a microcosm of all the
delights you can find in Ireland - and all within a 60 mile
radius of Dublin’s air and sea ports. Leinster’s golf ranges
over traditional and modern, from links to parkland. The
quality of golf is superb. The Irish and European Opens,
and Irish PGA and Golfing Union of Ireland amateur
championships have been hosted by clubs in this region.
But not only that, the 2006 Ryder Cup was played at the K
Club in Co. Kildare.
Counties in the East / Leinster: Carlow,
Dublin,
Kildare,
Laois,
Longford,
Louth,
Meath,
Offaly,
Kilkenny,
Westmeath,
Wexford,
Wicklow.
PAGE 25
Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club, Co. Meath. Rosslare Golf Club,
Co.Wexford.
Druids Glen Golf Club, Co.Wicklow.
GOLFERS GUIDE TO
26 THE EAST REGION / LEINSTER – MAP OF GOLF COURSES
COMPLETE MAP OF IRELAND ON PAGE 92 GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND
2014
DUBLIN
KILKENNY
LAOIS
LONGFORD
MEATH
OFFALY
WESTMEATH
WICKLOW
KILDARE
Courses are referenced on
page 27
Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the
compilation of this map, because of the small scale of this map,
position of courses are a guideline only. Please contact us if you
notice any errors so we may correct them in future issues. The
information on this map is correct at the time of going to press. ©
January 2014 Portside.
GOLFERS GUIDE TO
GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND 2014 INDEX STARTS ON PAGE 94
Palmer Course K Club. Co. Kildare
Map Ref. Golf Course E1 Dundalk Golf Club E2 Carnbeg Golf Club E3
Ballymascanlon Golf Club E4 Killin Park Golf Club E5 Greenore Golf
Club E6 Ardee Golf Club E7 County Longford Golf Club E8 Seapoint
Golf Club E9 County Louth Golf Club E10 Townley Hall Golf Club E11
Ballinlough Castle Golf Club E12 Headfort Golf Club E13 Royal Tara
Golf Club E14 Navan Golf Club E15 Moorpark Golf Club E16
Bellewstown Golf Club E17 Laytown & Bettystown E18 Glasson Golf
Club E19 New Forest Golf Club E20 Mullingar Golf Club E21 Delvin
Castle Golf Club E22 South Meath Golf Club E23 County Meath Golf
Club E24 Glebe Golf Club E25 Knightsbrook Golf Club E26 Killeen
Castle Golf Club E27 Ashbourne Golf Club E28 Mount Temple Golf Club
E29 Moate Golf Club E30 Esker Hills Golf Club E31 Tullamore Golf
Club E32 Castle Barna Golf Club E33 Edenderry Golf Club E34
Moyvalley – The Champions Club E35 Rathcore Golf & Country Club
E36 Kilcock Golf Club E37 Black Bush Golf Club E38 Killeen Golf
Club E39 Highfield Golf Club E40 Carton House – Montgomerie E40
Carton House – O’Meara E41 Celbridge Golf Club E42 Knockanally Golf
Club E43 Castlewarden Golf Club E44 K Club, The – Palmer Course E44
K Club, The – Smurfit Course E45 Millicent Golf Club E46 Curragh
Golf Club, The E47 Clane Golf Club E48 Bodenstown Golf Club E49
Woodlands Golf Club E50 Palmerstown House Golf Club E51 Pine Trees
Golf Club E52 Birr Golf Club E53 Portarlington Golf Club E54 Cill
Dara Golf Club E55 Dunmurry Springs Golf Club E56 Newbridge Golf
Club
Map Ref. Golf Course E57 Craddockstown Golf Club E58 Naas Golf Club
E59 Mountrath Golf Club E60 Abbeyleix Golf Club E61 Rathdowney Golf
Club E62 Heath Golf Club, The E63 Heritage Golf Club, The E64 Athy
Golf Club E65 Kilkea Castle Golf Club E66 Rathsallagh Golf &
Country Club E67 Tulfarris Golf Club E68 Baltinglass Golf Club E69
Old Conna Golf Club E70 Woodbrook Golf Club E71 Bray Golf Club E72
Powerscourt Golf Club – East E72 Powerscourt Golf Club –West E73
Dun Laoghaire Golf Club E74 Charlesland Golf Club E75 Glen of the
Downs Golf Club E76 Greystones Golf Club E77 Delgany Golf Club E78
Kilcoole Golf Club E79 Djouce Golf Club E80 Vartry Lakes Golf Club
E81 Druids Glen Golf Club E81 Druids Heath Golf Club E82 Roundwood
Golf Club E83 Wicklow Golf Club E84 Blainroe Golf Club E85
Glenmalure Golf Club E86 Macreddin Golf Club E87 European Golf Club
E88 Coollattin Golf Club E89 Woodenbridge Golf Club E90 Arklow Golf
Club E91 Leinster Hills Golf Club E92 Killerig Golf Club E93 Carlow
Golf Club E94 MountWolseley Hotel & Golf Club E95 Tara Glen
Golf Club E96 Seafield Golf & Country Club E97 Ballymoney Golf
Club E98 Courtown Golf Club E99 Castlecomer Golf Club E100 Kilkenny
Golf Club E101 Gowran Park Golf & Leisure Resort E102 Callan
Golf Club E103 Mount Juliet Golf Club E104 Mountain View Golf Club
E105 Borris Golf Club E106 New Ross Golf Club E107 Bunclody Golf
Club E108 Enniscorthy Golf Club E109 Wexford Golf Club E110
Rosslare Golf Club E111 St. Helen’s Bay Golf Club
Map Ref. Golf Course Golf Clubs in the North Dublin area DubN
Balbriggan Golf Club DubN Balcarrick Golf Club DubN Balheary Open
Golf Club DubN Beaverstown Golf Club DubN Castleknock Golf Club
DubN Clontarf Golf Club DubN Coldwinters Gold Club DubN Corballis
Golf Club DubN Corrstown Golf Club DubN Deer Park Golf Club DubN
Donabate Golf Club DubN Elmgreen Golf Club DubN Forrest Little Golf
Club DubN Hollystown Golf Club DubN Hollywood Lakes Golf Club DubN
Howth Golf Club DubN Island Golf Club, The DubN Luttrellstown
Castle DubN Malahide Golf Club DubN Open Golf Club, The DubN
Portmarnock Golf Club DubN Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links DubN
Roganstown Golf & Country Club DubN Royal Dublin Golf Club DubN
Rush Golf Club DubN Silloge Park Public Golf Club DubN Skerries
Golf Club DubN St. Margaret’s Golf & Country Club DubN St.
Anne’s Golf Club DubN Sutton Golf Club DubN Turvey Golf Club &
Hotel DubN Westmanstown Golf Club Golf Clubs in the South Dublin
area DubS Beech Park Golf Club DubS Carrickmines Golf Club DubS
Castle Golf Club DubS Citywest Hotel & Golf Resort DubS Dublin
City Golf Club DubS Dublin Mountain Golf Club DubS Edmondstown Golf
Club DubS Elm Park Golf Club DubS Foxrock Golf Club DubS Glencullen
Golf Club DubS Grange Castle Golf Club DubS Grange Golf Club DubS
Hazel Grove Golf Club DubS Hermitage Golf Club DubS Killiney Golf
Club DubS Leopardstown Golf Club DubS Milltown Golf Club DubS
Rathfarnham Golf Club DubS Slade Valley Golf Club DubS South County
Golf Club DubS Stackstown Golf Club DubS Stepaside Golf Club
Map reference in this colour denotes a links course.
GOLFERS GUIDE TO
28 THE EAST REGION / LEINSTER
COMPLETE MAP OF IRELAND ON PAGE 92 GOLFERS GUIDE TO IRELAND
2014
ClubAdministrator: Elaine Spillane
[email protected] 01
841 2229 18 Hole parkland course 15 mins from Dublin Airport.
Challenging course in warm friendly environment providing visitors
with a relaxing and memorable day’s golf.
Full catering facilities available, excellent quality and service.
Green Fees:Monday - Tuesday €25; Wednesday - Sunday €35; Visitors:
Everyday Opens: See Website Location: Located about 20 miles North
of Dublin City, the course is easily
accessible being just off the M1. Length: 6,069 metres Golf Pro:
Nigel Howley Bar Snacks / Lunch / Dinner available
Signature Hole 6th, Par 3, 161 yds, Index 15 Lovely par 3 from an
elevated tee the green is protected by water front left and a
bunker back left to catch the long tee shot. Pick the right club
off the tee to set up a good birdie chance.
7218
DubN N
€25€3
Manager:Michael Leonard
[email protected] 041 988 2757
Spectacular new 18 hole course, all weather USGA greens, flanked by
the River Bradden to the North, the course runs along the top of
the Hill of Crockafotha. A great challenge to all levels of
golfers. Green Fees:Monday - Friday €10;Weekends & Public
Holdiays €20. Visitors: Welcome everyday Opens: See website
Location: Located 25 miles North of Dublin & 6 miles South of
Drogheda.
Turn off the M1 at Drogheda South and Julianstown exit. Length:
6,700 yards Golf Pro: Sid Baldwin Bar Snacks / Lunch
available
Signature Hole 8th, Par 3, 235 yds, Index 3 A beautiful and
challenging down hill par 3 with amazing views from the tee, played
down to a challenging green with water on the left and trees to the
right and back.
7218
E16 N
General Manager: Patrick Bradshaw
[email protected] 0404
68168
Blainroe Golf Course is set on parkland terra