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aug/sept

2014

proud supporters of golf Voyager

.P and M GOLF SUPERSTORE10 years in the making

THE PROS HaVE THEIR SaYJamie O’sullivan, Marian Riordan, Liam Duggan and padraig Dooley

SnaG GOLFshows us golf óg

HISTORYthe Home Internationals

BaRRY ROdESRules expert joins the team

dRIVInG RanGESLittle and often

dUnGaRVan GOLF TRIanGLE

CaSTLEGREGORY GOLF and FISHInG CLUBOpens new clubhouse to the world

Ladies and Gents Golf and Leisure WearGift Vouchers Available

unit k8, Douglas Court Shopping Centre,Douglas Cork,T:021 489 3044

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BEAUFORtGOLF CLUBOpen Single 18 hole Stableford every Friday until end of September. Entry: Visitors €20 Members €10. Ordinary Membership and Points4Golf Membership available.Special Green Fee rates available during the week. Visit our website http://beaufort-golf-club.com and check out our special offers, open days etc.

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LEttER tO MEMBERS

MARIAN RIORDANManaging Fairway woods

PADRAIG DOOLEYCompares drivers nine years apart

LD GOLF’S LIAM DUGGANThe Takeaway

DRIVING RANGESLittle and often

DUNGARVAN GOLF tRIANGLE

SNAG GOLF’S GOLF ÓG

P AND M GOLF SUPERStORECelebrating 10th anniversary and the opening of a new custom fitting centre

JAMIE O’SULLIVANCelebrating 10th anniversary and the opening of a new custom fitting centre

BARRY RHODES RULESIrish clubhouse delighted to have enga-ged the services of rules expert, BARRY RHODES

HIStORY WItH PAUL GORRYHome internationals

CAStLEGREGORY GOLF AND FISHING CLUBCastlegregory celebrates the opening of its new clubhouse

GOLF CLUB CONtACt DEtAILS

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CONtENt

EDItOR Diarmuid Sheehan · DESIGN BY Doodle Creative · PUBLISHED BY Irish Clubhouse Magazine Ltd.

tHE IRISH CLUBHOUSE

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so) but sometimes one doesn’t get an appreciation of what these people can achieve. What influence they have and what good they can do for our little country and its golfing industry.

The Irish Clubhouse is heading into its third year soon and again we would like to thank all the advertisers. Our aim is to provide quality content to the members of Irish golf clubs for free. We try to make our articles and features relevant to the Irish golfer and we try to do this with a glossy top quality product that benefits the people who read it.

In this edition we again feature golf professionals, golf clubs, driving ranges and some new and not so new golf-related ventures that are all looking for support from the Irish golfer. The offers that are available to the Irish golfer at present are unprecedented. The value that can be got in the game right now is exceptional. If members can go and play other courses they should but they should also never forget their own club. That extra breakfast in the bar or that box of balls from the pro shop all helps.

A golf professional told us recently that he can compete with nearly every price on the internet, he just needs the chance. So as members it is up to us to ask them. Most clubs are fortunate to have a professional on site. What other game could you play where a professional player is available at your disposal for 8, 10 or 12 hours a day, 364 days a year?

In short, use your club, use your neighbouring clubs and always call into the local professional to see what he can do for you. You might get a nice surprise.

Yours,

EditorDiarmuid SheehanDiarmuid@irishclubhouse.ie

LEttERtO MEMBERSA

t times like this, one appreciates just how lucky we are to play the game of golf. The increase in temperatures, the longer days and the extra activity (inside and outside our clubhouses) make the golf club a much more

enjoyable place to be.

Ireland has seen the game of golf pushed to the forefront again after one of the most successful Irish Open’s the country has ever seen. The 2014 event will be remembered for the sensational weather, some outstanding golf and unfortunately for the poor challenge from most of the big Irish names, (Graham McDowell excluded), but unfortunately you can’t have everything.

Having said all that, the Irish Open 2014 will mainly be remembered for the quality of the venue. The Fota Island Resort was thrust front and centre so the world could see just what Ireland has to offer. And the verdict? Unanimous praise from the world’s press.

The Fota Island Resort showed better than most, just what Ireland has to offer to the visiting golfer with several television channels showing golf fans Ireland in the sun.

The Irish Open is a chance for the “great and the good” to strut their stuff in the VIP areas and mingle with the stars from all walks of life. The Open is also a place where plenty of work gets done behind the scenes. The Irish Clubhouse got to witness some of this work at first hand as several Ministers and even the Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, came to promote the country.

On the first night, Minister Leo Varadkar met all the foreign journalists attending the event and personally welcomed them to Ireland. He posed for pictures with all of them (whether they wanted to or not) and chatted at length with any one that would listen. Mr Varadkar chatted to media from China, Norway, Sweden, Italy and America and that’s just what I saw. It wasn’t for the cameras or microphones, these were friendly, infornal chats to make these people feel at home.

Mr Kenny arrived with an entourage on Sunday and not only presented the big cheque and some silverware to the winner but he also played his part in promoting not just Cork, but Ireland as a whole.

We often come down hard on our politicians (deservedly

Killarney Golf GUI/ILGU A5.indd 1 23/07/2014 10:18

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Managing the fairway woods is advantageous to every golfer’s game; however the execution of these clubs can be difficult for most club golfers. Making the distance between the tee and the green is key - par 4’s are hit in regulation birdie chances on par 5’s.

MARIAN RIORDAN

Good fairway players have a few things in common: • Fair assessment on the lie of the ball• Committed club selection based on the lie

(3 wood, 5 wood or Hybrid)• Good fundamentals on hitting a fairway

wood

Every golfer should have a pre-shot routine which should include assessing the lie of the ball which helps to make a good club selection. In my opinion a good rule for every club golfer is that 3 woods should be left for the Tee box and 5, 7 woods or hybrids should be used from the fairway. This is because they are shorter in length with extra loft, easier to hit and they get the ball in the air and moving forward.

Checklist for executing your fairway woods

PLaCE BaLL FORwaRdPosition the ball between your driver position (off your front heel) and your mid-iron position (the middle of your stance). This allows you to hit slightly down on the ball so the loft of the club can do its job.

SqUaRE SHOULdERSProper alignment is important when swinging any club, but this is especially so when hitting fairway woods. Open shoulders can causes a steeper downswing, which can prevent solid contact. Keeping the shoulders square helps you to strike the ball with a flatter angle of attack, which works with ball position to create a well-struck shot.

TakE dIVOTAlthough you are playing the ball forward in your stance and attempting to make a flatter swing, you still need to hit slightly downward on the ball. The driver is the only club hit with an upward swing, and this is because the ball sits up on a tee. Ideally, you will take a very shallow divot just in front of the ball; this will let you know that your clubhead was traveling downward when it struck the ball, but the angle of contact was shallow enough to give you maximum distance.

SwInG SMOOTHLYMany players think that they must make harder and faster swings to get the ball up in the air with a fairway wood. Although it is true that higher clubhead speeds make the ball go farther, after a certain point extra

MANAGING tHE FAIRWAY WOODS

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MARIAN RIORDAN

effort only causes mis-hits. The best way to develop clubhead speed is to swing with a smooth rhythm and “within yourself,” swinging only as fast as you can comfortably control the club. A solid centred strike is a controlled flight with maximum distance.

THInk “IROn”Although a fairway wood shot is not quite the same as a good short-iron shot, The main differences are that the ball is slightly more forward in the stance, which keeps the player’s body more behind the ball and discourages taking a deep divot; and the hands are more over the ball rather than ahead of it, again to discourage taking a deep divot. However, you still hit down on the ball as you do when using an iron; thinking that way will help you avoid scooping the shot. Finally every player should play with fairway woods that are suitable to them and their individual swing. Make sure to call into your PGA Professional so they can advise and custom fit you with fairway woods that are fit for you.

Limerick Junction, Co. Tipperary Call + 353 62 33333Email info@ballykisteenhotel.com www.ballykisteenhotel.com

Idyllically located in the shadow of the Galtee Mountains in the heart of County Tipperary, Ballykisteen Hotel & Golf Resort is a wonderful retreat in a beautiful setting. Relax and unwind in our leisure centre, pamper yourself in our beauty & treatment rooms, enjoy a round of golf and shop up a storm in our fully stocked Pro Shop.

BaLLykISTEEn HoTEL& GoLf RESoRTPlay, Stay & Dine From€99

BALLYkIStEEN GOLF CLUBT: +353 (0) 62 32117E: info@ballykisteenhotel.com

YOUR PERFECTTEE OFFFota Island Resort is, quite simply, a place like no other. From the inviting challenge of a world class golf course to the welcome opulence of the five-star Fota Island Hotel and Spa… From the privacy of your own exclusive lodge, to the simple pleasure of a stroll along the gentle shore…

Contact us TodayT +353 (0)21 488 3700 E info@fotaisland.ie

HOTEL SPA GOLF CLUB GOLF ACADEMY LODGESFota Island Resort, Fota Island, Cork, Ireland www.fotaisland.ie Find us on

Proud host of the

is delighted to offer full Membership to golfers for 2015. Steeped in history, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and playable 12 months of the year, Mallow Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and enjoyable par 72 championship courses in Munster.

open days - wed, fri, bank holiday mondays weekendsVIsItORs €20societies welcome every day

• Membership rate also includes full access to both tennis and squash courts. • Make the best decision of 2014 right now and become part of this historic club.• Mallow golf Club welcomes all green fees and societies to one of the finest courses in munster • for details contact mallow Golf club at 022 21145 or email mallowgolfcluboffice@eircom.net Make sure to visit us at www.mallowGolfclub.net

Play one of the finest parkland golf courses in Munster.

MALLOW GOLF CLUB

A valid question is how much better is today’s equipment in comparison to equipment from a few years ago? Equipment companies are always promising more distance e.g. 17 more yards and release new drivers every year or every second year.

I used a Titleist 905S for a number of years. It was launched in 2004 and I used it until 2008 when I changed to a Titleist 909D3. I am now currently playing with a Titleist 913D3 launched in 2012. How much different is the 913D3 in comparison to the 905S?

Recently I compared both using a Trackman Launch Monitor.I hit 30 drives with each club. The ball that was used was the Titleist Pro V1. It was a nice Spring day, temperatures around 16 degrees Celsius and a slight breeze (around 7mph) against.

HERE aRE THE RESULTS.

THE SPECIFICaTIOnS OF EaCH CLUB aRE aS FOLLOwS• Titleist913D3-loft9.5degrees,shaftGraphiteDesignTourAD

Di-7S-Flex,length45inches• Titleist905S-loft9.5degrees,shaftMitsubishiDiamanaBlue73

X-Flex,length44.5inches

The results are interesting. Carry and total distance are down due to the wind being against. There was only 0.8 yards extra distance with the latest 913D3 model, but was much more accurate, an average of 15 feet closer. Most interesting is the extra club head speed with the 913 doesn’t transfer to much more distance than the 905. A reason behind the little difference in distance might be the shorter shaft of the 905 leading to a better strike giving more distance; it might also be expected to get more accuracy with the shorter shaft but not on this occasion. Also the launch angle on the 905 is better than the 913 leading to a more optimal flight and longer distance from the lesser speed.

COnCLUSIOnThere wasn’t a great difference between the two drivers. It could be suggested that as there is a limit on the COR (coefficient of restitution) or springlike effect on drivers, that most clubs manufactured since

the limit was introduced are near this limit and are very similar in performance. If you have a driver that fits your game well, gives you a centered strike along with optimal launch conditions it’s very unlikely that there’s a new driver out there that will give you significantly more distance. The key is to have a driver fitted to your game. In this example the 913 could gain more distance with better launch conditions. The 905 could gain more distance with a longer shaft or a slight decrease in club weight. I would recommend you spend time finding a driver that fits your game and you feel comfortable with. This doesn’t have to be the latest model; in fact any model from the last number of years could work exceptionally well. As second hand drivers are great value this means you don’t have to spend a fortune on a new driver to get more distance, spend money on getting good advice, this will save you in the long term.

Making golf easier with Longer DrivesGuaranteed longer drives or your money back

club fitting, instruction, trackman, Golf fitnesspadraig Dooley, Riverstown House, glanmire, Co. Cork

tel: 087-2895057 facebook.com/drivegolfperformance

twitter: @0to300golf

2005 VS 2014 DRIVER

Club Clubhead speed(mph)

ball speed Launch angle spin Rate CarryYards

total Distance Heightfeet

Distance from target

913d3 104.8 155 9.5 2577 238.2 261.4 79.9 26

905s 102.5 153.2 10.8 2523 238 260.6 83.6 41

LEFtPadraig Dooley

efficient weight transfer to instil stability in the lower body and achieve mobility in the upper body while maximising separation of the lower & upper body. This leads to a more efficient more powerful swing.

“Stability ensures mobility”

Throughout the history of the golf, the game’s greatest coaches have always emphasised the importance of the correct sequence of the takeaway. When asked what was the key to the golf swing Ben Hogan always suggested:

“Poor players try to do it with their right arm, you have to do it with the left arm”

Jack Grout, coach to the greatest player to ever play the game, Jack Nicklaus, emphasised swinging between the ankles while creating a very wide takeaway.

These concepts are key in creating the correct feeling for a good takeaway

So what must we do to make an efficient takeaway?

In creating a repetitive powerful swing it is vital to push the club away with the left hand. This allows the left shoulder to rotate away from the target. This rotation if done correctly will load your weight into the inside of the right foot, giving width, extension and turn. Once your weight is locked in early in the takeaway it creates a stable lower body and allows the upper body to continue rotating off it. This helps to maximise your X factor (difference between hip & shoulder turn)

The one piece takeaway refers to how the hands, arms & club all come away in one piece at the start of the backswing.. The V created between both arms is retained until the club gets to hip height with minimum wrist hinge. While many golfers achieve this they fail to do this in the correct fashion.

pic 1 - most amateur golfers make the takeaway with their right hand which leads to poor Weight transfer & inefficient coiling. The goal of the takeaway is to create an

In creating power in the golf swing most golfers totally overlook the importance of creating the correct feelings in the takeaway. While many players achieve a one piece takeaway many players fail to generate the power, accuracy & consistency required from this oft misconstrued fundamental.

a poor takeaway can ruin a swing as it begins.

the correct takeaway creates stability in the lower body and mobility in the upper body.

tHE tAkEAWAY

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tHE IRISH CLUBHOUSE

dRILLS To create this feeling you can work on a number if drills

1- the push away drill: taking your sddress position and hold the club in your left hand only. Simply push the club away with your left hand until club gets to waist height. This can also be done by taking your left hand & pushing it away from target in address. In performing this drill the shoulder should turn behind the ball and lad weight correctly (swinging between the ankles)

2- trunk rotation drill: take an alignment stick/club and put it across your shoulders while in your golf posture. Turn away from the target getting the butt end of the club pointing behind the golf ball. This movement should get your weight loaded inside the right foot. Ensure the weight here to keep stability in the lower body To further emphasis the feeling of stability. Place a football between the knees which will minimise hip rotation & increase shoulder turn.

Our LDgolf summer Camps are specially designed to focus on en-couraging children to learn through active participation and use a guided discovery method through tasks and activities. these 5 day child centred camps provide each chid with the fundamental skills of the game in a fun filled environment.

Camps open toboys & Girls aged 5-16 years // places limited due to venue facilities1/2 day camps run from 10am to 12pm or 12.30pm to 2.30pm daily full day camps run from 10am to 2.30pm daily1/2 day camp €50full day camp €90€30 deposit required to hold space

Contact Liam or Catherine on 086-1718715 or 087-9497675

tHE tAkEAWAY

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MALLOW GOLF DRIVING RANGE

50 Grass Tees / 12 Indoor Driving Bays / Professional Tuition / Swing AnalysisChipping Greens / Putting Green / Sand Bunkers / Proshop / TV Lounge / Club Hire

OPEN 11AM - 10PM (7 DAYS)(022) 27894 / (086) 8252440www.mallowgolfrange.com

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19 Bay Fully fl oodlit driving range in Limerick City

Open Mon-Fri 10am-9.30pmSat/Sun/B.Hols 10am - 7pm

follow us on facebook -barbara hackett golf centre coonagh golf academy

Twitter @bhgolfprowww.bhgolfpro.ieTel. 086 8116255

Full Range of tuition available for golfers of all levels.

ball from behind each time. practice your distance control on the golf range. it is imperative that you know what distance you hit each of the clubs in your bag so use the distance targets on the golf range to do this. Select the specifi c club required to hit to the yardage markers on the range outfi eld and take note of the distance you reach with the very well struck shots, not the miss hits. remember when you play it is far more frequent that you will be hitting 7,8,9 and wedges to greens so hit more shots with these crucial clubs. also when you are hitting at a green with a short iron you would expect to hit the target more often than if you were attacking with a 3, 4 or 5 iron, so practice to get that precision.

write down what those distances are for each of your clubs, they are a personal thing so when you are on the golf course and you have a specifi c distance to the green, your practice will allow you to select the correct club.

LiTTLe And ofTenwith free time at a premium these days, players can’t spend too long practicing - but that’s perfectly ok as the key to practicing is “little and often”.

try to come to the golf range twice a week and hit a medium bucket of balls, rather than smashing two or three hundred balls as far as you can once every few months. and when there - make each shot worthwhile rather than just hitting as many as possible, remember it is quality not quantity that will make your practice worthwhile.

tips:have a pre-shot routine that you go through when you play and try to hit every shot on the golf range using this routine. it may require you to approach the

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The Junior Golf Academy is up and running with weekly group sessions every Friday for boys and girls. There are a number of initiatives planned over the coming months for golfers of all levels including ‘Taster Session’ for newcomers to the world of golf, to comprehensive individually tailored coaching programmes for the most ambitious golfers.

Brendan and Barbara are also planning to launch a Club Team Training Programme for the winter months which aims to work with Club Teams in the region and this comprehensive programme will cover all aspects of the game from Video Swing Analysis, Mental Skills Programme, and Fitness for Golf Programme.

Brendan McDaid PGA and Ladies European Tour Pro Barbara Hackett have teamed up in recent months and from their base in Limerick City Golf Range and Golf Academy are in the process of building a Centre of Excellence for Golf Coaching in the Mid West Region.

contact barbara 086 8116255 or brendan on 087 2436805limerick city (coonaGh) drivinG ranGe (061) 455584

Blarney Driving Range and Golf Academy caters for a player’s long game, short game, putting, fitness, mental strength, course distance, control and much, much, more. This academy can now boast something for everyone. Whether you are practicing seriously or just using the game as a relaxing pastime, there is a place for you in Blarney.

The academy has access to top PGA teaching professio-nals. On site, you will find PGA Advanced Munster Coach Fred Twomey as well as the PGA Cork Coach Paul Kiely. Regardless of your golfing abilities, Blarney Driving Range and Golf Academy is a place that every golfer should try to visit at least once and like most of the loyal patrons that frequented the range over the years you are sure to emerge a better player.

Blarney Driving rangeanD golf acaDemy

contact them at 021 4382060

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”If you think it’s hard to meet new people, try picking up the wrong golf ball.”(Jack Lemmon)

”Golf appeals to the idiot in us and the child. Just how childlike golf players become is proven by their frequent inability to count past five.”(John updike)

“We learn so many things from golf—how to suffer, for instance.”(bruce lansky)

“Golf isn’t like other sports where you can take a player out if he’s having a bad day. You have to play the whole game.”(phil blackmar)

”While playing golf today I hit two good balls. I stepped on zzrake.”(Henny Youngman)

Golf is the cruelest game, because eventually it will drag you out in front of the whole school, take your lunch money and slap you around. (Rick Reilly)

Golf is very much like a love affair. If you don’t take it seriously, it’s no fun, if you do, it breaks your heart. Don’t break your heart, but flirt with the possibility. (Louise suggs)

Golf is not, and never has been, a fair game. (Jack Nicklaus)

The fundamental problem with golf is that every so often, no matter how lacking you may be in the essential virtues required of a steady player, the odds are that one day you will hit the ball straight, hard, and out of sight. This is the essential frustration of this excruciating sport. For when you’ve done it once, you make the fundamental error of asking yourself why you can’t do this all the time. The answer to this question is simple: the first time was a fluke. (colin bowles)

The right way to play golf is to go up and hit the bloody thing. (george Duncan)

Golf is not, on the whole, a game for realists. By its exactitudes of measurement, it invites the attention of perfectionists. (heywood hale broun)

GOLFINGqUOtES

“If you’re caught on a golf course during a storm and are afraid of light-ning, hold up a 1-iron. Not even God can hit a 1-iron.” - Lee Trevino

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Golf is like acting in that both require concentration and relaxation at the same time. In acting, you can’t push emotion. You have to let it rise from you naturally. Same thing in golf. You have to have a plan and a focus; but then you need to just let it happen and enjoy the smooth movement of the swing. (Jane seymour)

“Every golfer can expect to have four bad shots in a round and when you do, just put them out of your mind. This, of course is hard to do when you’ve had them and your not even off the first tee “(walter hagen)

“You can make a lot of money in this game. Just ask my ex- wives. Both of them are so rich that neither of their husbands work.”(Lee trevino)

“These greens are so fast I have to hold my putter over the ball and hit it with the shadow. “(sam snead)

“The first time I played the Masters, I was so nervous I drank a bottle of rum be-fore I teed off. I shot the happiest 83 of my life.” - William Hemingway

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WESt WAtERFORDRECENtLY RAtED NO 8 IN IRELAND’S HIDDEN GEMS COURSES

gary Hurley: west waterford and irish International player, gary and the Irish team reached the final of the european amateur championships in finland. gary also played and made the cut in the the Irish Open 2014.

seamus power: west waterford’s seamus wins the 10th annual southern Open trophey, his 4th win the egolf pro tour usa. powers campaign on the egolf tour has been nothing short of astounding with 9 top 6 finishes including this win.

Open DaysIntermediate/Minor scratch Cup 8th-10th augustal eile open mens Qualifier – every wednesdayladies open Qualifier – 1st thursday each monthautumn open week – 16th – 21st september

special Green fee rates available online @

www.westwaterfordgolf.com or ring the office 058 43216

Dungarvan Golf Club is a championship parkland course located 4km outside the town of Dungarvan. The course is adjacent to Dungarvan Bay and set againsed the backdrop of

the comeragh mountains.

Facilities

- Excellently maintained 18 hole Champi onship golf course in a lovely setting practice area and putting green.- Full Bar and Catering facilities- PGA Professional and fully stocked PRO shop, buggies and clubs for hire.- Warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere

GreenFees & societies

- Greenfees and Societies welcome- Preferential group rates available- Internet special greenfee offers

open Days

membership special oFFer New members very welcome- Attractive Full Membership Introductory Rate

Enquire with Irene Lynch Secretary/Manager for further details on membership, greenfees, societies, open days.

Knocknagranagh, Dungarvan,Co. WaterfordT: (058) 43310 || F: (058) 44113E: dungarvangc@eircom.net

Web: www.dungarvangolfclub.com

MONDAYS: Open Ladies & Gents Seniors (50+) 10 euroTHURSDAYS: Open Gents Singles 20 euro

SEPTEMBER AUTUMN OPEN WEEKFri 5 Open Gents Singles // Sat 6 Open Gents/Ladies SinglesSun 7 Open Gents Singles // Mon 8 Open Gents/Ladies Singles Tue 9 Open Ladies Singles // Wed 10 Open 2 Person RumbleThu 11 Open Gents Singles // Fri 12 Open 3 Person Rumble Sat 13 Open Gents & Ladies Fourball Sun 14 Open Gents & Ladies Fourball

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GOLD COASt GOLF CLUBballinacourty, dungarvan

• 18 Hole- par 72 golf course• magnificent panoramic views• friendly welcome• golf members for all budgets• No entrence fees• Course playible all year round• Consistantly good greens• full hotel and catering facilities on site

discounted dual leisure centre membership

eVeRY tuesDaYopen seniors (50+) ladies and Gents golf €12golf and Cavery Lunch €20

every fridayopen mens single Golf €15Golf and carvery lunch €25

tel: 058 44055email: GoldcoastGolf@cablesurf.comweb: www.GoldcoastGolfclub.com

Last year SNAG Golf piloted a primary schools initiative simply called “Golf4Schools” across the Munster region. This self funded initiative was warmly received with over 8000 children from over 60 schools taking part and experiencing golf (nearly all of them for the first time) in a fun and safe way all within the confines of their own school yard or hall. “The real future of golf surely must come from at-tracting more youth into the game and where better to start than at our national schools across the country” says Michael O’Keeffe who adds “Many of the schools we attended during the initiative were a bit apprehensive when first approached, the idea of golf balls and metal clubs in the school yard was not that appealing for obvious reasons. Once we explained how the SNAG Golf system worked, then showed them the equipment we used they were keen to get on board. We can safely say that after the actual golf day was completed at the school both teachers and pupils were well and truly con-vinced that golf could be a part of their P.E. lessons” On the back of this initiative SNAG Golf was able to return to many of the schools and roll out its 6 week Official Schools PE programme. The programme itself was renamed golf óg, which came about when SNAG Golf surveyed all the schools taking part in their programmes and presented them with 5 differ-ent names to choose from and golf óg was the overwhelming winner.

The golf óg Primary Schools Programme is now running across the country with many clubs and PGA professionals on board and reaping the bene-fits that comes with getting involved with their local education facilities. A real success story has been at Castlerea Golf Club where SNAG Accredited Coach Philip Murphy PGA introduced SNAG Golf to local national schools. Philip then invited pupils to join him back at the club where they received fur-ther tuition, the result; a growth of over 200% in the clubs junior section which went from 20 up to 63. O’Keeffe explains “The golf óg programme is all about getting kids introduced to golf at a very young age and getting them so excited about playing the game that they will want to continue. If we can pro-vide a vehicle that facilitates that to happen which in turn helps feed more children into a clubs junior section then surely this can only be a good thing for the game of golf Ours is a long term strategy and not a short term flash in the pan exercise, it will take patience and cooperation from all stakeholders involved in golf for it to really have an impact. Initial indications are good with schools showing a real desire to get involved.” The membership of any golf club is made up from all walks of life and this includes many from the teaching profession. If there are teachers amongst your membership we urge you get them to make contact with SNAG Golf so they can find out more about their award winning equipment and schools programme. To help we have included a 4 page SNAG Golf pull out schools brochure (please see centre pages) in this edition of Irish Clubhouse. If you would like to contact Michael directly then his details are: Email : michael@snaggolf.ie Phone : 022 34145

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE !

www.facebook.com/SnagGolf.UK.and.Ireland www.twitter.com/makegolffun

SNAG Golf 1st Floor Blackwater House,

Mallow Business Park, Gouldshill, Mallow,

Co.Cork tel: 02234145 / 0873683333

email: info@snaggolf.ie

“JNLL chose SNAG as the right Partner because of their innovative , safe

& modified equipment and their commitment to making golf a FUN sport to learn” Jack Nicklaus

18 Time Major Winner

"Starting new at Golf (SNAG) is an introduction to the game which has been my life for over sixty years. Golf is a game of a lifetime and I would encourage all

children, from the age of five, to give SNAG a try. SNAG can be enjoyed by all, parents with children, as well as, grandparents with grandchildren and a wonder-

ful extra curricular activity for schools. Along with many instructional concepts SNAG can be an introduction to the game of golf for champions of the future."

Bob Charles The Open Championship Winner

To find out how your school can be part of this fantastic programme please contact us on

022 34145 or email info@snaggolf.ie

golf óg POWERED BY

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“It was one of the most worth-while and enjoyable activities we ever held in the school”

Brendan O’Connor, Principal,

golf óg Primary Schools Programme

SNAG® Golf is a world leading education system that is currently used in 42 coun-tries and by over 10,000 schools globally. Our Primary Schools Programme contains all the elements of golf but in a modified form making it easy for children to under-stand. In the past twelve months alone, our age appropriate equipment and program-ming has introduced many thousands of children across Ireland to this lifetime sport. SNAG® provides an excellent entry into the game of golf, beginning at the earliest stages of the education system. The SNAG® curriculum includes concepts in:

Mathematics - numeracy, angles and measurement. Physical Education - gross and fine motor skills, spatial awareness and accuracy. Social Studies - communication, relationships and co-operation. Science - (physics) forces, inertia, acceleration and trajectory. Perceptual Motor Programme (PMP) - rotation, balance (stability), movement, co-ordination and manipulative skills. Fundamental Movement Skills - body awareness, space awareness,

qualities and relationships. The unique thing about SNAG® is that it can be played inside or outside. It does not rely on size, speed or athletic ability. The colourful SNAG® environ-ment encourages participation, learning and belonging to all students.

All equipment is supplied with our Programme To Book Your School Call 022 34145

SNAG® offers an age appropriate curriculum with structured lesson plans, student assessment and numerous challenging activities.

Our six week structured pro-

gramme has been designed to suit the school calendar.

The SNAG® programme incorpo-

rates specific strand requirements as laid down by The Department of Education Guidelines on Physical Education in Primary Schools.

SNAG® is the most effective

method of introducing golf, SNAG® is gender neutral and does not rely on size, speed or athletic ability of students.

Key Benefits of golf óg

“The fun approach and quick success made it a favourite PE lesson with all the classes” Audrey Murphy Principal

“Rarely have I received such a positive feedback from an extra curricular activity” Denis Murray Principal

“There was great structure to the lesson with clear step by step instructions. Positive feedback for the children from the coach with progression in lesson every week. Requires children to focus and improves their concentration”

Laura Daly Class Teacher

School Testimonials

GET YOUR SCHOOL INVOLVED !

21

“It was one of the most worth-while and enjoyable activities we ever held in the school”

Brendan O’Connor, Principal,

golf óg Primary Schools Programme

SNAG® Golf is a world leading education system that is currently used in 42 coun-tries and by over 10,000 schools globally. Our Primary Schools Programme contains all the elements of golf but in a modified form making it easy for children to under-stand. In the past twelve months alone, our age appropriate equipment and program-ming has introduced many thousands of children across Ireland to this lifetime sport. SNAG® provides an excellent entry into the game of golf, beginning at the earliest stages of the education system. The SNAG® curriculum includes concepts in:

Mathematics - numeracy, angles and measurement. Physical Education - gross and fine motor skills, spatial awareness and accuracy. Social Studies - communication, relationships and co-operation. Science - (physics) forces, inertia, acceleration and trajectory. Perceptual Motor Programme (PMP) - rotation, balance (stability), movement, co-ordination and manipulative skills. Fundamental Movement Skills - body awareness, space awareness,

qualities and relationships. The unique thing about SNAG® is that it can be played inside or outside. It does not rely on size, speed or athletic ability. The colourful SNAG® environ-ment encourages participation, learning and belonging to all students.

All equipment is supplied with our Programme To Book Your School Call 022 34145

SNAG® offers an age appropriate curriculum with structured lesson plans, student assessment and numerous challenging activities.

Our six week structured pro-

gramme has been designed to suit the school calendar.

The SNAG® programme incorpo-

rates specific strand requirements as laid down by The Department of Education Guidelines on Physical Education in Primary Schools.

SNAG® is the most effective

method of introducing golf, SNAG® is gender neutral and does not rely on size, speed or athletic ability of students.

Key Benefits of golf óg

“The fun approach and quick success made it a favourite PE lesson with all the classes” Audrey Murphy Principal

“Rarely have I received such a positive feedback from an extra curricular activity” Denis Murray Principal

“There was great structure to the lesson with clear step by step instructions. Positive feedback for the children from the coach with progression in lesson every week. Requires children to focus and improves their concentration”

Laura Daly Class Teacher

School Testimonials

GET YOUR SCHOOL INVOLVED !

SNAG Golf 1st Floor Blackwater House,

Mallow Business Park, Gouldshill, Mallow,

Co.Cork tel: 02234145 / 0873683333

email: info@snaggolf.ie

“JNLL chose SNAG as the right Partner because of their innovative , safe

& modified equipment and their commitment to making golf a FUN sport to learn” Jack Nicklaus

18 Time Major Winner

"Starting new at Golf (SNAG) is an introduction to the game which has been my life for over sixty years. Golf is a game of a lifetime and I would encourage all

children, from the age of five, to give SNAG a try. SNAG can be enjoyed by all, parents with children, as well as, grandparents with grandchildren and a wonder-

ful extra curricular activity for schools. Along with many instructional concepts SNAG can be an introduction to the game of golf for champions of the future."

Bob Charles The Open Championship Winner

To find out how your school can be part of this fantastic programme please contact us on

022 34145 or email info@snaggolf.ie

golf óg POWERED BY

Phone Number: (063 )81257www.charlevillegolf.com

242424

From this vision, P and M Golf Superstore was born. The 5,000 sq. ft. shop not only stocks all the leading brand names at affordable prices but it also has two indoor driving bays that give clients the opportunity to try out the best equipment on the market prior to purchase.

The P and M Golf Superstore is located on the outskirts of Ennis town and has built up a loyal and extensive client list from far and wide. P and M have been looking after golfers from as far away as Belfast while never forgetting the needs of the local golfers in the Clare / Limerick area.

On walking in the door at the P and M Golf Superstore it is clear that you are entering a facility that has evolved over the years. The shop has all of the leading names for

golf bags, shoes, clothes, clubs and any other golf related accessory that the modern golfer could possibly desire. The shop is bright and beautifully laid out with a huge variety of

products on display without ever looking cluttered. P and M Golf Superstore has clearly achieved its goal of being a one-stop-shop for amateur golfers so take a trip to P and M and see what the team can do for you.Custom fitting at P and M Golf Superstore.P and M Golf Superstore decided to celebrate the milestone of 10 years in business byextending their premises earlier in the year – so a lease was taken on the top floor of their existing business premises on the Kilrush road and a second driving bay was installed.The aim of the second bay was not only to give patrons another location to try out the equipment but to provide a personal and

private location from where the team could give one-to-one lessons as well as providing an extensive fitting service to those who require it. The new bay uses a mixture of modern technology (Flight Scope) and old fashioned know how from the professionals to help all golfers of all abilities reach their potential. The duo have been delighted with the feedback they have received since opening the new bay back in March and they are hoping it will continue to impress as they add more and more equipment to the state-of-the-art location.Not content with just running one of the top golf shops in the country the team also manages the pro-shop at the prestigious Ennis Golf Club. This diversity keeps P and M in touch with the needs of the club golfer so they can continuously update both their stock and their teaching methods to cater for the everyday golfer.

10 years ago a pair of PGA professionals had an idea. They felt that the south west area of the country could do with a top class golf shop. A golf shop that catered for every type of golfer - be they high, middle or low handicappers, men, women or kids. An all-encompassing shop that would provide answers to all the questions the golfers of the region could ask.

25

THE TEaMThe P and M Golf Superstore may have been set up by Padraig and Martin but the company has brought in help over the years and now visitors to Ennis will be served by any one of the team of four. Both Padraig and Martin remain at the forefront of the business with Padraig’s father Pat and Martin’s partner Claudia Nicholson also heavily involved in the day to day running of both locations.

THE FOUndERS

MaRTIn waRdMartin has been the golf professional at Ennis Golf Club for over 30 years. After spending 20 years as the club professional, Martin left before returning to the club four years later where he has remained for the last 10 years.Martin turned pro at the age of 17. He was based in Blackpool (England) in his early years before becoming assistant at Royal Dublin for 18 months. From there, Martin came to the south west – where he has remained to this day.

PadRaIG MCGRaTHPadraig McGrath started playing golf at 10yrs of age after 4-5yrs of pitch & putt. Once he played his first game he openly admits he was “hooked”. Over the next decade Padraig pretty much lived on the golf course at Dromoland Golf & Country Club before eventually battling his way to scratch at 19 years of age.

Claiming he was never a natural talent Padraig puts his success down to one simple factor, hard work. For eight years he played at the top amateur level in Ireland competing in all the championships including the local South of Ireland. During his amateur career he had plenty success winning scratch cups

while also competing with his beloved Dromoland Golf Club, he then represented Lahinch Golf Club up until 2009 from where he turned professional. Padraig loves his job - helping golfers to achieve their potential - both with coaching and custom fitting so that players can get the best out of their own game.

CUSTOM FITTInGAs custom fitters it constantly surprises us at P and M Golf Superstore just how many golfers are not using the correct equipment. From our experience over 90% of the clients we have fitted were not using the right shafts or lofts. Getting the correct spin rate and launch angle is different for every golfer because every golfer has different club-head speeds and some golfers hit down on the golf ball with their driver which exaggerates this spin rate. By hitting up on the ball rather than down on the ball with your driver changes this spin rate dramatically. Achieving more distance and accuracy is a combination of getting the optimum spin rate and launch angle to match your club-head speed. We at P and M Golf Superstore highly recommend all golfers get fitted by a member of the PGA. We regularly get clients in for a fitting and we know almost immediately how to get them more accuracy and distance by helping them with their swing along with custom fitting them for a new club.

For example, we recently had a lady golfer visit us looking for more distance with her driver. After hitting a few drives we could see she had very limited movement of her lower body in her swing. Looking at the readings on the Flightscope we could see her launch angle was extremely low. We knew by giving this client more loft we could help her achieve more distance but we also knew that we could get her far more distance by helping her with her swing. In this instance we choose to work on our clients hip rotation and we helped her to achieve 22mph extra club-head speed than she had been getting. This extra club-head speed also helped to launch her ball higher which also added to extra distance. In the end instead of fitting our client for a high lofted ladies driver she left with a men’s regular 10.5 degree driver and 58yards extra on her drives. The extra distance that we achieved that day would not have been possible by just custom fitting alone - but by a combination of coaching and fitting that’s why we highly recommended ever golfer takes the advice of their local PGA Professional when looking to get fitted.

Our new fitting centre is open 9-6 Monday to Saturday above P&M Golf Superstore.

Padraig McGrath.00 353 868863330padraigmcgrath@hotmail.com

• Contact: Padraig, Martin, Pat or Claudia at:• P and M Golf Superstore• Unit 9, Westgate Business Park• Kilrush Road,• Ennis,• Co Clare.• Telephone: 065 684044• Email: Martinfward@gmail.com padraigmcgrath@hotmail.com

26Address: Dooks Golf Links, Glenbeigh, Co. Kerry Tel: + 353 (0) 66 976 8205 Email: office@dooks.com Web: www.dooks.com

DOOKS GOlf Club

– C e l e b r at i n g 1 2 5 Y e a r s i n 2 0 1 4 –

Redesigned by Martin Hawtree in 2005, Dooks is situated only 30 minutes from Killarney and offers breath taking views of Dingle Bay

•book online•trial membership available•Visit www.dooks.com

WWW.MUSKERRYGOLFCLUB.IE OR RING (021) 4385297 FOR DETAILS

27

Douglas Golf Club Maryborough Hill.

Douglas. Cork

Bookings now being taken for Societies, Classics and Green Fees. Full bar and catering facilities available.

Meeting rooms also available.

Contact Conor O’Brien, General Manager.Tel: 021 4895297 Email: douglasgolf@eircom.net Web: www.douglasgolfclub.ie

Thursday Open Singles: €25

Early Bird Green Fee up to 9.30am

Pre booking essential

28

PITCHInG FROM HEaVY ROUGHAt this time of the year, (particularly this year) the rough is growing quickly and can be very thick. The ball can find nasty lies that make it very hard for the average golfer to not only control the ball, but to even get to it. The ball tends to sit down in the rough and this makes it difficult to get the leading edge of the wedge neatly to the bottom of the ball. The rough grass also gets caught between the ball and the grooves of the clubface. This will lead to inconsistent strikes culminating in a lack of distance and spin control.

The thick rough can also catch the hold of the club and this twists the clubface closed through impact leading to low trajectory and shots that can travel left with a tendancy to run on more than expected.

Note:Remember a good pitcher of the ball is good at controlling the ball with whatever club they choose, however in heavy rough we should use a club with plenty of loft which helps with accuracy and control, the main two ingredients in the short game.

JAMIE O’SULLIVANPItCHING FROM HEAVY ROUGH

1. Use a lofted wedge, open the blade and grip it tighter than normal. This will help keep the clubface square through impact.

2. Place the ball in the centre of your stance and lean your weight predominantly on your front leg.

3. Make a wristy backswing with your hands and arms to an L shape not moving your weight. This will help deliver the blade on a steeper angle down into the ball getting, ensuring a cleaner strike and more control.

4. Make sure to keep the hold tight and really commit to a firm strike, making sure to hold the blade open, pointing to the sky on the abbreviated finish (due to the heavy rough). Don’t be afraid to make an aggressive pass though impact as the open clubface will pop the ball more up than forward. Now we have a better strike with a square clubface so the ball will travel higher and softer. You will need to practice this shot to gain the confidence and consistency required, but playing the shot this way will give you the control required to play it well.

PItCHING FROM HEAVY ROUGH

29

tHE IRISH CLUBHOUSE

COnTaCT JaMIE aT • Charleville Golf Club, Charleville, Co. Cork

• or 063 81257 or 063 21269 • www.jamieosullivangolf.com/

Buried lie in heavy rough close to the green makes it difficult to control the ball.

Make sure to open the clubface alot, then take your grip.

Hold it tighter than normal so the club face wont shut through impact

With your weight staying on your front leg make a wristy L shaped backswing.

Make an aggressive move through impact holding the clubface open.

Your finish may be abbreviated due to the rough but always allow your eyes and chest to turn through to the target after the strike!!

3030

RULES qUIz

hole 1: In a four-ball Stableford event, John decides to speed things up and hits his ball from the fairway when it is obviously not his turn. His fellow competitor is entitled to require that John cancels this stroke and plays again when it is his turn.

a) True.b) False.

Answer: b) False.Note: In these circumstances, no penalty is incurred if a competitor plays out of turn and their ball is played as it lies.

hole 2: Bill’s ball lies in a fairway bunker that has been poorly raked. As a result, in making his stroke he brushes a clump of sand with his backswing before hitting his ball onto the putting green. What is the ruling?

a) Bill incurs a penalty of two strokes and the ball is played from where it lies on the putting green.b) Bill incurs a penalty of two strokes and he must recreate the lie where he played from and drop a ball at that spot. c) Bill incurs no penalty as the sand was touched during his stroke.

Answer: a) Bill incurs a penalty of two strokes and the ball is played from where it lies on the putting green. Rule 13-4a.Note: When his ball lies in a bunker Bill is not permitted to touch sand, or any loose impediment, on the backswing of his stroke.

hole 3: Jack has a very long putt from one end of the putting green to the other to make his par. To speed up play he takes his putt before anyone has a chance to attend the flagstick. His ball hits the flagstick at speed and drops into the hole. What is the ruling?

a) Jack has holed out for a par.b) Jack incurs a penalty of one stroke for a bogey.c) Jack incurs a penalty of two strokes for a double bogey.

Answer: c) Jack incurs a penalty of two strokes for a double bogey. Rule 17-3c. Note: When a stroke is been made from the putting green a player’s ball must not strike the unattended flagstick in the hole.

hole 4: Betty’s ball lies on the fairway and she has a couple of practice swings close to where her ball lies. Being a tidy person, Betty fills in a divot hole alongside her ball, which does not affect the lie of her ball or her stance. In doing so, she accidently touches her ball, causing it to move by two dimples. What is the ruling?

a) Betty incurs no penalty because she was removing a loose impediment and her ball is played from where it now lies.b) Betty incurs a penalty of one stroke and her ball must be replaced.c) Betty incurs no penalty as the ball had only oscillated.

Answer: b) Betty incurs a penalty of one stroke and her ball must be replaced. Rule 18-2a.Note: If a player causes their ball to move except as permitted by a Rule, they incur a penalty of one stroke. If they do not replace the ball the penalty increases to two strokes for playing from the wrong place (Rule 20-7).

hole 5: In a strokes competition John’s tee shot heads into the trees. After searching for it for less than 5 minutes he declares it lost and, after consultation with his fellow competitors, drops the ball in the agreed vicinity of where they think it would have come to rest. What is the ruling?

a) John incurs a penalty of two strokes because his ball is lost and his next stroke is played from where his original ball was believed to have been lost.b) John must return to the teeing ground to play his 3rd stroke.c) John may declare his original ball unplayable and drop another ball within two club-lengths of where he thinks it was lost for a penalty of one stroke.

Answer: b) John must return to the teeing ground to play his 3rd stroke. Rule 27-1c.Note: If a ball is lost the player must play a ball, under penalty of one stroke, as nearly as possible at the spot from which the original ball was last played.

hole 6: Jess is fairly sure that her drive has landed out of bounds, but announces her next ball as a provisional, just in case. Her stroke with the provisional ball comes to rest short of where the original ball might have been lost and she plays it again onto the putting

31

tHE IRISH CLUBHOUSE

green. As she continues her walk up the fairway a fellow competitor finds her original ball in bounds, some distance ahead of where she played her second stroke with the provisional ball. What is the ruling?a) Jess does not have to play the original ball as she played her provisional ball a second time without searching for her original ball. She lies 4.b) Jess must play her original ball. She lies 4. c) Jess must play her original ball. She lies 2.

Answer: c) Jess must play her original ball. She lies 2. Note: If the original ball is neither lost nor out of bounds it must be played if it is found within five minutes of someone searching for it and at a place closer to the hole than where the provisional ball was last played from. Rule 27-2.

31

BaRRY RHOdES – RULES OF GOLF ExPERTbarry rhodes qualified as a chartered accountant but has spent most of his career in senior sales, marketing and management roles within the information and communication technology (ICt) sector in Ireland. He is an enthusiastic, high handicap golfer who developed an interest, then a fascination, and now an obsession with the Rules of golf. He is resident in Dublin, where he is an active member of Milltown golf Club.

barry’s relationship with the rules began in 2000 with his participation in the inter-club Rules of golf quiz competitions, organised by the royal & ancient for Golf clubs in Great britain and ireland. this progressed to him writing articles, running quizzes, and delivering presentations on the Rules at various golf Clubs and corporate functions. He writes a weekly web blog, containing interesting content for anyone who wishes to improve their knowledge and understanding of the Rules of golf, at www.barryrhodes.com and has another web site www.RhodesRulesschool, which is an indispensable resource for anyone who wishes to improve their knowledge and understanding of the Rules of golf. In 2009 his first book ‘999 Questions on the rules of Golf’ was published in the uk. it was updated for the amendments to the rules that became effective in January 2012 and is now exclusively available as an ebook, either direct from the author, or through the amazon book store. He also answers questions on the Rules of golf and is a guest contributor on various golfing web sites around the world.

in march 2008, barry became the first person to achieve a 100% correct mark on the public advanced Rules of golf Course examination, run by the professional golfers association (pGa) in their headquarters at the belfry, west midlands, uk (see below).

barry’s published works include;ebook: 999 updated Questions on the rules of Golf 2012-2015 miscellaneous videos, including: relief from water hazards, relief from lateral water hazards, nearest point of relief, ball unplayable, provisional ball‘rhodes rules school’ – photo series‘rhodes rules school’ – how many strokes?’‘99 tips on using the rules of Golf to your advantage’3 rules Quizzes: General, Juniors and match play‘so you are Going to play match play’ weekly blog on the rules of Golf: barryrhodes.comDozens of miscellaneous articles published in various golf magazines and web sites.

barry can be contacted by email at barry@barryrhodes.com or by phone at +353 86 821 6979

32

The Men’s Home Internationals take place on 13-15 August at Southerndown in England. For over eighty years these annual matches between England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales have been an important fixture on the golfing calendar. They have been played annually since 1932 with the exception of 1939-1946 and 1979. The Home Internationals, once an indispensable stepping stone for amateurs aspiring to Walker Cup places, have lost some status in more recent decades. Nevertheless, they remain central to amateur golf in the home countries. Ireland’s first outright win in the Home Internationals came in 1950 at Harlech. Before that England and Scotland dominated. Traditionally the team was captained by one of the players, but in 1948 Charles Hezlet was appointed as the first non-playing captain. Hezlet was one of the country’s most renowned amateurs, the first Irishman to reach the final of the Amateur Championship and a three-time Walker Cup player. He was to remain captain until 1953. In his first two years the Irish team finished runners-up, losing out on the title by the narrowest of margins. His third outing proved even more successful.

When the team of 12 was announced in September 1950 its composition did not meet with universal approval. Paddy Leyden gained his first cap when his only achievement to date had been reaching the final of the recent South of Ireland championship. There was more criticism about the inclusion of Jimmy Bruen. Bruen’s brilliance as a golfer was not in dispute. The fact that he had not competed in any important event in Ireland during that year caused the Irish Times correspondent to comment ‘whether it is in the best interests of Irish golf to pick people who do not play in the Irish championships is open to question’. He suggested that uncapped up-and-coming young players such as Norman Drew and John Glover were deserving of being blooded.

The matches began on Wednesday 27 September 1950 with Ireland losing the foursomes 3-2 to Scotland. Then play as abandoned due to torrential rain. The following day Ireland beat Wales 10-5 and Scotland beat England. On the third day Ireland took the first four foursomes against England and lost the last. In the afternoon England won six of the ten singles, but overall victory went to Ireland, 8-7. At the same time Scotland and Wales halved their match. So the championship was decided on the singles encounter with Scotland, postponed to the Saturday. The Irish won four of the ten singles, three were halved and three were lost, with a result of 5½ to 4½ in favour of Ireland. Combined with the foursomes played three days earlier that meant a draw, leaving the Irish as champions.

The star of that first Irish victory was Max McCready of Dunmurry, the 1949 Amateur Champion. He won all his six matches, including the three

RIGHt2008 winners

ABOVEHome internationals winners 1950

HOME INtERNAtIONALS

Photos courtesy of The GUI

33

foursomes in partnership with Bruen. Joe Carr lost only his first foursomes, while the other leading performers were Cecil Beamish and Cecil Ewing. Paddy Leyden was unfortunate in not being played at all. However, he joined Carr and Ewing in Ireland’s second Home Internationals win in 1955 at Birkdale. By then the brief but sparkling amateur career of Norman Drew was long over. In November 1953 he turned professional, following the example of fellow international Michael Ferguson of Dundalk, who made the move earlier that year. They were the first high profile Irish amateurs to become professional, and it was a long time before their career path became the norm. After the Home Internationals victory in 1955 the third win was a long time coming. It was not till 1983 that another outright championship was achieved, and it was the first on home soil, being won at Portmarnock. By then it was becoming the natural progression for the bright young things to seek a career in professional golf. Philip Walton had just taken the plunge and Ronan Rafferty was already established on tour. Another trend was beginning to effect the composition of the Irish team. Young players were taking up scholarships in American universities, and their availability for Irish teams was being dictated by their college coaches.

The next Irish win was at Lahinch in 1987, followed by back-to-back victories in 1990 and 1991. Four winning teams in the space of nine years was a record never repeated by Ireland again. It provided the opportunity for Garth McGimpsey and Liam MacNamara to establish themselves as the only Irish players to have been on four winning Home Internationals teams. Mark Gannon was the only other to have played on three. Though many young Irish players were moving to the professional game by that era, most of those

on the winning teams were career-amateurs. In a few cases younger players, like Eoghan O’Connell, who represented Ireland in the European Team Championship during the summer were under the thumb of American college coaches by September, when the Home Internationals were played. That became more prevalent in the late 1990s. For example, in 1998 Michael Hoey, then Irish Amateur Open champion, was unavailable for the Irish team as he had just started in Clemson College. Of course, each of the four home countries suffered by the dictates of the American college system.

Ireland had two more wins in the twenty-first century – 2003 and 2008. In marked contrast to the norm in the previous decades, not one player was on both these winning teams. The composition of Irish teams changed phenomenally between our earliest winners in 1950 and our most recent in 2008. In 1950 Joe Carr was the youngest member at 28; in 2008 Eoin Arthurs was the oldest at 25. In 1950 the average age of members was something like 35; in 2008 it was more like 21½. In 1950 they were all amateurs for life; all but one of the eleven in 2008 subsequently turned professional.

For decades the Home Internationals were held in September. The last time this happened was when Ireland won at Muirfield in 2008. Following that the matches were push back into August, presumably to address the American college schedule interference. However, this caused other problems with the congested golfing calendar over summer months. The matches now clash with the US Amateur championship. This fact was highlighted spectacularly last year, when the GB&I Walker Cup team was announced after the international matches. Seven of the ten places on the team went to English and Welsh players who chose to compete in the US Amateur rather than representing their country.

Once an essential stepping stone to GB&I teams for career-amateurs, now of secondary importance in the eyes of GB&I selectors, the Home Internationals are symptomatic of how amateur golf has changed from a goal in itself to a training ground for the professional game. Nevertheless, those who compete for Ireland in these internationals can be proud of donning the uniform and continuing a long and distinguished tradition.

Paul Gorry is a genealogist by profession. Family involvement in championship golf led to an interest in Irish golf records. Applying his experience in research to original golf sources, over decades he has accumulated a huge amount of material on the achievements of Irish golfers, which he hopes to publish in book form. He is author of Baltinglass Chronicles 1851-2001 and Baltinglass Golf Club 1928-2003, and joint author (with Máire Mac Conghail) of the Collins Pocket Reference Tracing Irish Ancestors. Paul maintains a Facebook page called Celebrating Irish Golfing Achievements.

(www.facebook.com/IrishGolfWins).

tHE IRISH CLUBHOUSE

HIStORY qUIzTELL US WHO IS IN THE PHOTOS (IN THE CORRECT ORDER) TO WIN A 4-BALL FORBANTRY BAY GOLF CLUB.

Winners will be drawn from all the correct answers. (announced on Facebook on August 30th 2014).

Two 4-balls on offer for the 1950’s team and one 4-ball for the 2008 team.

Answers to info@irishclubhouse.ie

Photos courtesy of The GUI

There have been so many bad news golf stories circulating over the past few years as plenty golf clubs in Ireland struggle to keep their heads above water. While this trend seems to be continuing at pace, one club has bucked the trend and done what most could only dream about.

Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club officially opened its new clubhouse in July. That’s right, NEW. Not refurbished, not just a new roof or freshly painted. This is a state of the art, architect designed Clubhouse – and it is a credit to the members of this terrific club. After years of planning and fundraising, the dream finally came through for all at the west Kerry course in July when ILGU President Mary McKenna MBE cut the ribbon at the official opening.Club chairman Noel Earlie, like all of his fellow 350 members was understandably on a high at the opening of the new facility and took time to explain the story of the Clubhouse. From the outset, we wanted a clubhouse that would be modern and functional. There was no point in building something which would be a drain on our

finances as has been the case with so many golf clubs over the last 20 years. We settled on keeping it straightforward and simple with a reception area, tea shop, changing areas and a veranda overlooking the course which can host barbecues and the like. It is not a huge structure, instead it is very specific to our needs and requirements.” With the new clubhouse being designed by Warren Reidy and built by David O’Connor, there was little doubt that the quality of the finished structure would be sublime however, as with all clubs, it would be the members that would have the final say on whether this project would be deemed a success or not and in the case of Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club the reaction has been 100% positive.

With the final bill coming in at €475,000 this was always going to be one of the biggest projects undertaken by Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club, however most of the funding came from their own resources built up over the years and the financial news is already positive with club sources confirming that they are “moving in the right direction in terms of the payments”.

a TRUE LInkSCastlegregory Golf and Fishing Club may not have been top of most Irish golfers hit list when it comes to playing the most desired courses in the land but that probably had more to do with

the company they keep in the area (Tralee, Killarney, Dooks and so on) than it did with Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club itself. Despite being listed as a “True Links” course (only 246 worldwide, 58 in Ireland) Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club has always suffered from the lack of a clubhouse, and with that issue now firmly out of the way there is no doubt that this 9-hole Links course on the edge of the Atlantic ocean will go from strength to strength in the coming years. After unveiling their new clubhouse to the world, Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club now has all the facilities on site that are required to attract visiting golfers - and that is one of the markets that the members are hoping to bring to the club. “We want more people to discover what we have to offer, and hopefully the new facilities will make us more attractive in that quest” said Earlie who added, “We hosted a Barton Shield qualifier a few weeks ago and people were overwhelmed with the quality of the course.”

THE wILd aTLanTIC waY“As part of the Wild Atlantic Way, obviously we have a lot of Irish holiday makers in these parts and then you have the American and the continental market. The continental market is something that has been quite impressive in recent years. France and Germany in particular have been strong for us. Perhaps also people are a bit more time-conscious now, so many are as happy, if not happier, to play just nine holes instead of the full 18. In addition, many from that market also want a ‘wildlife experience’ and there is an abundance of that in Castlegregory– wild flowers, native and migratory

34

CAStLEGREGORYGOLF AND FISHING CLUB OPENS ItS NEW CLUBHOUSE tO tHE WORLD

35

birds and it is also home to the rare Natterjack Toad. In fact the golf course is probably the most important breeding site for the Natterjack in Ireland and Britain.”

HUMBLE BEGInnInGSCastlegregory Golf and Fishing Club has come from very humble beginnings, having operated out of a car for the first few years, then a caravan, this was followed by a 40-foot portable building and only now they have joined the bricks and mortar club with their beautiful, environmentally sensitive, tailor-made clubhouse that will stand on the Dingle Peninsula for many years to come. Operating in such conditions for more than 20 years might be considered a chore for most golfers but they are made of tough stuff in Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club and the experience has made the members all the more appreciative of what they have now. Credit is due to the club and its members for not jumping in when the country was awash with money - getting involved in the Celtic Tiger excesses that gripped the nation. This decision has meant that the club are financially secure at present. The club runs a tight ship financially and still manages to charge only €25 for green fees in one of the most expensive parts of the country for golf.

• Stradbally, Castlegregory, Co. Kerry, IRELAND.• info@castlegregorygolflinks.com• +353 (0)66 7139444

ABOVEDr Arthur Spring (Course Designer), Sean O’Connor (Treasurer), Ivan Morris and Michael Murphy. (GUI)

LEFtSean Spillane (Club President), Marion Bourke (Lady President), John Brassil (Chairman Kerry County Council), Brian Neenan (Club Captain), Nora Keogan (Lady Captain), Mary McKenna MBE (President ILGU), Sandra Nyan (Marketing Director), Noel Earlie (Chairman of Management).

Photos courtesy of Mr. Peter Egan

ABOVEThe new Castlegregory clubhouse.

GOLF AND FISHING CLUB OPENS ItS NEW CLUBHOUSE tO tHE WORLD

36

CHUMANN CHEANN SIBéAL

Golf chumann cheann sibéal (near ballyferriter village and nine miles from Dingle) is nestled in a stunning green valley between the majestic hill of Cruach Mhárthain to the south and a ridge of jagged peaks to the north—Ceann sibéal and the three sisters. to the east, Cuan ard na Caithne caresses a two-mile long stretch of white sandy beach called béal bán and mount brandon. to the west, the mighty atlantic is faced off by high rocky cliffs, punctuated with tiny coves and beaches just right for smuggling.

at 6737 yards the 18 hole par 72 is a traditional irish link.

the Club was founded in 1924 (as Dingle golf Club).

the original design was by eddie Hackett. the back nine was developed in the eighties and the clubhouse in the nineties. Christy O’Connor Junior did some re-designing in the nineties also.

each hole is full of tricky undulations and swales, with hazards laid down long before the game of golf was dreamt of, including a winding “burn” that twists and turns through the entire course. as much a part of the experience at Dingle as our golf course, our clubhouse has a life all of its own. It resounds with the camaraderie of friends and locals, enjoying wonderful food and atmosphere in relaxed and casual surroundings. upstairs you’ll find our lively club bar and dining room with wonderful views of the Links. Our menu is seasonal and created from fresh local ingredients supplied locally from both farm and sea.

ample parking available. a full hire service for clubs, buggies & carts. proshop, fully stocked with leading brands & ceann sibéal golf Club branded merchandise.

dingle Golf links is the ideal location for your golfing holiday in kerry, south west ireland.

this is Golf in ireland. this is Golf in ceann sibéal.call us at (066) 9156255 of Go to www.dinGlelinks.com

37

CHUMANN CHEANN SIBéAL

ABBEYLEIX Ph. 057 8731450 www.abbeyleixgolfclub.ie

ADARE Ph. 061 605274 www.adaremanor.com

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CHARLEVILLEPh. 063 81257www.charlevillegolf.com

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DELGANY Ph. 01 2874536 www.delganygolfclub.com

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DOOkSPh. 066 9768205 www.dooks.com

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GALWAY GOLF CLUBPh. 091 522033www.info@galwaygolf.com

GLENGARRIFF Ph. 027 63150 www.glengarriffgolfclub.com

GOLD COASt Ph. 058 44055 www.goldcoastgolfclub.com

k-CLUBPh. 01 6017200www.kclub.ie kANtURk Ph. 029 50534 www.kanturkgolf.com kENMARE Ph. 064 6641291 www.kenmaregolfclub.com

kILkEE Ph. 065 9056048 www.kilkeegolfclub.ie

kILkENNY Ph. 056 7765400 www.kilkennygolfclub.com

kILLARNEY Ph. 064 6631034 www.killarney-golf.com

kILLORGLINPh: 0669761979. www.killorglingolf.ie

kILLEEN Ph. 045 866003 www.killeengolf.com

kILRUSH Ph. 065 9051138 www.kilrushgolfclub.com

kINSALE Ph. 021 4774722 www.kinsalegolf.ie

LAHINCH Ph. 065 7081003 www.lahinchgolf.com

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LISMORE Ph. 058 54026 www.lismoregolf.org

LISSELAN Ph. 023 8833249 www.lisselan.com

LIStOWEL Ph. 087 4156010 www.listowelgolfclub.com

LUCAN Ph. 01 6280246 www.lucangolfclub.ie

MACROOM Ph. 026 41072 www.macroomgolfclub.com

MAHON Ph. 021 4292212 www.mahongolfclub.com

MALAHIDE Ph. 01 8461611 www.malahidegolfclub.ie

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MItCHELStOWN Ph. 025 24072 www.mitchelstown-golf.com

MOUNt WOLSELEY Ph. 059 915167 www.mountwolseley.ie/golf.html

MOUNtRAtH Ph. 057 8732643 www.mountrathgolfclub.ie

MOUNt JULIEtPh. 056 7773071 www.mountjuliet.ie/golf

MOUNtAIN VIEW Ph. 056 7768122 www.mviewgolf.com

NAAS Ph. 045 897509 www.naasgolfclub.com

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RING OF kERRY Ph. 064 6642000 www.ringofkerrygolf.com

RINGENANE Ph. 021 4772197 www.ringenanegolfclub.com

ROSCREA Ph. 0505 21130 www.rosreagolfclub.ie

ROSS Ph. 064 6631125 www.rossgolfcourse.com ROSSLARE Ph. 053 9132203 www.rosslaregolf.com

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SkELLIGBAY Ph. 066 9474133 www.skelligbay.com

SkERRIES Ph. 01 8491567 www.skerriesgolfclub.ie

SkIBBEREEN Ph. 028 21227 www.skibbgolf.com

SLIEVENAMON Ph. 052 6132213 www.slievenamongolfclub.com

SPANISH POINt Ph. 065 7084198 www.spanishpointgolfing.com

St HELEN’S BAY Ph. 053 9133234 www.sthelensbay.ie

StACkStOWN Ph. 01 4941993 www.stackstowngolfclub.ie

SWORDS Ph. 01 8409819 www.swordsgolfclub.ie

tEMPLEMORE Ph. 0504 31400 www.templemoregolfclub.ie

tHE HERItAGEPh. 057 8645500 www.theheritage.com

tHURLES Ph. 0504 21983 www.thurlesgolfclub.com

tRAMOREPh. 051 386170www.tramoregolfclub.com tHE OLD HEAD Ph. 021 4778444 www.oldhead.com

tIPPERARY Ph. 066 7136379www.tipperarygolfclub.com

tRALEE Ph. 062 51119 www.traleegolfclub.com

WAtERFORD Ph. 051 876748 www.waterfordgolfclub.com

WAtERROCk GOLF COURSE Ph. 021 4613499 www.waterrockgolfcourse.com

WAtERFORD CAStLE Ph. 051 871633 www.waterfordcastle.com

WAtERVILLE Ph. 066 9474102 www.watervillegolfclub.net

WEStMANStOWN Ph. 01 8205917 www.westmanstowngolfclub.ie WEXFORD Ph. 053 9142238 www.wexfordgolfclub.ie

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