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. irishclubhouse.ie facebook.com/irishclubhouse TUITION Three of the country’s top teaching professionals share some tips to help your game APRIL/MAY 2014 SNAG GOLF Building for the future MALLOW GOLF CLUB Home Nations champions ALSO Irish Clubhouse’s new Golf Exchange. Classified ad site which is free for all of 2014 HISTORY Philomena Garvey. The Greatest woman player Ireland has ever produced
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Page 1: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

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TuiTionThree of the country’s top teaching professionals share some tips to help your game

April/MAy

2014

Snag golfBuilding for the future

Mallow golf ClubHome Nations champions

alSoirish Clubhouse’s new Golf Exchange.Classified ad site which is free for all of 2014

HiSToryphilomena Garvey. The Greatest woman player ireland has ever produced

Page 2: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

VisiT irElANd’s oNly dEdiCATEd ClAssifiEd siTE for GolfErs.

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CoME AloNG ANd BE pArT of THE GolfiNG rEVoluTioN.

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Page 3: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

LeTTer To MeMBers

chip And runJamie O’Sullivan explains what is required.

hisToryPhilomena Garvey: Ireland’s greatest woman golfer.

Ld GoLfLiam Duggan golf takes us through preparation.

QuiZA company that is saving golf clubs and golfers large amounts on their electricity bills.

irish open

snAGBuilding for the future.

MALLow’s fred dALy TeAM

Home Nations Champions.

powersAVVy How your club can save money on electricity bills.

MArion riordAn (puTTinG) How your club can save money on electricity bills.

BAcK pAGe (The GoLf eXchAnGe)Free to all users

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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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However, the dark fiscal clouds shouldn’t dominate the sky. While clubs may be finding it difficult to keep things going, they, like any good Irish business, are attempting to put their best foot forward and are still producing world class product, with the club’s green keepers deserving tremendous credit as they battle (and win) the yearly battle with mother-nature.

We are very lucky in Ireland, as there is no doubt that our golf clubs are among the best in the world. The clubs we have here cater for every standard of golfer as well as every pocket size. While we may suffer from adverse weather conditions at times, that really just makes our game more of a challenge.

As members, we need to support our clubs as much as possible as well as the clubs around us. There are so many great deals out from green fees to open days, it seems a shame not to travel around every now and then and take advantage of the superb facilities of our neighbours.

The Irish Clubhouse magazine and website will facilitate clubs, members and societies in any way it can to get their message out there but as the saying goes “information is power” and this is as true in the world of golf as it is anywhere else. Golf clubs need to let the players around them know what is available and hopefully this will help to increase the numbers visiting.

Leaving all the financial headaches aside, we in The Irish Clubhouse wish all golfers good golfing over the next few months and we hope that all players enjoy their golf as if they were a 10 year old child playing the game for the first time (no inhibitions, just playing for fun).

Good golfing,

Diarmuid [email protected]

LeTTerTo MeMBersW

elcome to the second edition of the Irish Clubhouse golf magazine in 2014. The publication you are reading has been distributed to over 160 golf clubs in, Munster Leinster and Connaught.

This magazine still aims to bring local, provincial and national news to the golfers of Ireland. To achieve this goal we need your help. We need the members of all the golf clubs to send on photos and stories about their clubs and their club’s members.

The Irish Clubhouse not only publishes this magazine on a bi-monthly basis but it also has a company facebook page www.facebook.com/irishclubhouse, and a company website www.irishclubhouse.ie.

The magazine has also launched the Golfexchange.This is a classified ad site dedicated to golf related products and at present is FREE to advertise on. www.golfexchange.irishclubhouse.ie

The Irish Clubhouse hopes that readers will take a moment to like us on facebook while also taking some time to go and check out our website where they can find out what is going on in the clubs around them.

After what has to be described as yet another difficult winter/spring period for clubs, all involved in the game locally hope that the summer can bring a little rest bite from the difficulties of wind, rain, frost, snow and the dreaded course closures.

Thankfully, courses are now beginning to come alive with activity on all levels. Clubhouses are beginning to see more patrons in their bars and restaurants, while courses are beginning to see their time sheets filling up for opens and weekend competitions.

As members look forward to participating in their own club competitions, the club’s top teams are gearing up for some of the provincial and national competitions that take place over the course of summer season.

With the grass taking on a darker, richer shade of green and the sun sitting higher in the sky we tend to forget about what the winter brought. The courses where we play may look fantastic as they bloom in the spring/summer sun but the reality is that they are still struggling financially.

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overview:This shot is played very close to the green, close enough to consider putting - however because of certain factors, ie. Wet green, long grass, divots on green or an obstacle (corner of bunker etc) you feel a chip is the better choice. The chip and run shot itself chips a very small way in the air, only enough to get on the putting surface, and then runs towards the hole like a putt, hence the name – Chip and Run.

SeT up:

Using a 7 iron, place your hands on the club using a light putting grip an inch down from the top of the handle.

Stand closer to the ball than usual with a narrow stance and the shaft held in a more upright position; this is all in an effort to give you more feel and control.

Stand nice and tall so your arms can hang naturally and position the ball in a central position. You must feel that your weight is favouring your front leg (nearest the target) and your hands are in front of the ball so the butt of the grip points to your leading thigh, creating a Y shape between your forearms and shaft.

CHipping aCTion:It is imperative that the action resembles the rhythm of a pendulum putting stroke. The back and through stroke must be a similar length and gently accelerating through impact. The hands remain soft and passive for this stroke, so fight the urge to help the ball up with a flick of the wrists. It is a soft arm action with one’s head and knees remaining very still until after the strike.

JAMie o’suLLiVAnchip And run

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The descending blow of the club will pop the ball into the air, and remember that club selection is entirely up to you. More loft = more carry & less roll, less loft =less carry and more roll.

Top Tip:Plan your shot by assessing the situation in front of you, choose your club, visualise and pick your perfect landing spot that will run the ball the correct distance to the hole.

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wiN GrEEN fEEs for BANTry BAy Golf CluB likE us oN fACEBook. simple as that. (More winners to be announced in next edition)

This is your chance to get something for frEE. Come see us on our fACEBook: www.facebook.com/irishclubhouse and click the like button. That’s it.

The GolfExCHANGE (irelands only dedicated online shop for Golf related items, including, clubs, carts, balls, lessons, golfing breaks and a host of other items associated with GOLF).

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

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is delighted to offer full Membership for 2014 to new and returning golfers. 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.

• 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 [email protected] Make sure to visit us at www.MAllowGolfCluB.NET

Play one of the finest parkland golf courses in Munster.

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This year marks half a century since a female Irish golfer first turned professional. That individual was Philomena Garvey, arguably the greatest woman player Ireland has ever produced. Fifty years on, Paul Gorry looks at this remarkable player’s career, and at the development of a role for women Irish professionals in her wake.

The highlights of Philomena Garvey’s amateur achievements speak volumes about her calibre – British Ladies’ champion 1957, runner-up four times and semi-finalist on two further occasions; US Ladies’ quarter-finalist in 1950; selected for seven Curtis Cup teams and played in six, including two victorious sides. In addition, she played on seven Vagliano Trophy teams and represented GB&I twice against Canada. Domestically she was in a league of her own, winning the Irish Close an unparalleled fifteen times.

Phil Garvey was a native of Baltray, close to Co. Louth Golf Club. When she was growing up the star of Irish ladies’ golf was a local girl, Clarrie Tiernan (later Reddan). Phil first came to prominence in 1944, when she reached the final of the Leinster Championship at Hermitage as an 18 year old. Clarrie Reddan denied her victory on that occasion, but she won the Leinster title on six subsequent occasions. In fact, her only other defeat in the Leinster

was in 1951, at the hands of Pat O’Sullivan of Tramore.

By 1946, when the Irish Close resumed after World War II, Phil was aged 20. She won the championship on her first attempt. Remarkably, of the 18 Irish Close championships played between 1946 and 1964, Phil won 14 and she was unable to play on two other occasions. So, in that era she was defeated only twice in an Irish championship – in 1949 (by Moira Smyth) and in 1952 (by Dorothy Forster).

Her decision to try her hand at professional golf came at the age of 37, by which time she had been one of the world’s leading lady amateurs for close on two decades. On 4 January 1964 the newspapers announced that Philomena Garvey had turned professional, becoming the first female Irish professional golfer. The rules on amateur status back then were extremely strict. As early as 1949 Phil had her status questioned by the R&A because she earned her living as a sales assistant in the sports section of Clerys department store. The very mention of contemplating turning professional was a breach of the rules. Consequently there were no rumours heralding Philomena’s announcement.

Ita Butler, who captained the victorious GB&I Curtis Cup team at Killarney in 1996, was a rising star in Irish golf when Phil took the step. ‘We were surprised when Philomena turned professional’ she recalls, ‘Professionalism was a taboo subject for amateurs then so there was no warning. But there was admiration for her courage in taking the step.’

phiLoMenA GArVeyireLAnd’s GreATesT woMAn GoLfer picture courtesy of the ilGu

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At the time there were very few female professional golfers outside of the USA. Other than Jean Donald and Jessie Valentine there were really no professionals in Great Britain, and very little opportunity for competition. Being made an honorary member of the Irish Professional Golfers Association, Phil was able to compete in the inaugural IPGA Southern Championship in July 1964. The following month she made more history in becoming the first woman to compete in the Irish Professional Championship. There was no qualifying round and no half-way cut, so she completed all 72 holes, albeit finishing in last place.

Finding that she could not make a career as a club professional, a teacher or a tournament pro, Philomena sought reinstatement as an amateur, which she obtained in December 1967. Having been defeated in the early stages of the Irish Close in 1968 and 1969 she claimed her 15th national title in 1970. At the age of 44 years and 27 days, she became the second oldest winner in the championship’s history.

Phil Garvey’s amateur career was at a time when international travel was slow and expensive. Consequently, her overseas competition was limited primarily to the British Ladies’ and to team events. It was as a member of the Curtis Cup team that she got the opportunity to play in the US Women’s Amateur twice. In 1950 she lost in the quarter-finals to the eventual winner, Beverly Hanson. In 1954 she reached the Last 16 before Mary Lena Faulk finished her run. In Phil’s day an amateur had to finance their own travel. Had she lived in a different era she could have made an even greater impact on women’s golf.

Other Irish players were slow to follow her unsuccessful lead. In 1969 Gwen Brandom became the second female Irish golfer to turn professional. Her experiment lasted a decade. In 1986 Maureen Madill turned professional, and succeeded in making a career as a tournament player, teacher and commentator. Later in 1986 Lillian Behan followed Maureen’s example, giving Ireland two female professional golfers for the first time. In 1989, twenty-five years after Phil played in the Irish Professional Championship, Gillian Burrell became the second woman to compete in it. Forty-five years after Phil’s appearance Marion Riordan became the first woman to come through the pre-qualifying process to gain a starting place in the 2009 Irish Professional Championship.

Phil was justly honoured with a biography, Philomena Garvey – Queen of the Irish Fairways, by her namesake Paul Garvey, published in 2009 by The Liffey Press. Sadly, she died on 5 May 2009, shortly before the publication. Today Rebecca Codd is the sole Irish member of the Ladies European Tour, but there are a few female club professionals and teaching pros in various parts of Ireland. They all stand on the shoulders of this giant of Irish women’s golf.

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

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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

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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 specific club required to hit to the yardage markers on the range outfield 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 specific 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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As a golf professional we see it happen day in, day out every single day-the ritual that is the club golfers pre round routine. five minutes before their tee time a squeal of tyres heralds the imminent arrival as the car flies into the car park .with near panic strewn across their face, clubs are out, shoes are half on and they scurry on to the first tee, a few hurried practice swings and are they ready. Chances of that the three hundred yard screamer that they expect are remote at best. yet, it doesn’t have to be like that. Most golfers see the benefits of a good pre shot routine, but just how many middle handicap players are aware of the importance of a consistent pre round routine, as the old adage goes

“fail to prepare, you prepare to fail”

if we look at the modern Tour player, on average, they have pre round routines that take between one and two hours.Their primary goal for the pre-round routine is to ensure that they enters the round with a focused mindset that will give them the best chance to maximize performance. for the average club player this may seem a lot but to prepare for a game but if you can even set aside 45 minutes to one hour before a competitive round it can really make a difference. In a pre round routine, we want to achieve: • physical preparation (15 to 30 mins)• technical preparation (20-30 minutes) and• mental preparation (which we achieve through the process of the pre round routine)

we will now look at each part of the process.

pHySiCal preparaTionAs a coach it often shocks me how little awareness we seem to have about the importance of warming up the body. in executing the golf swing amateurs achieve approx 90% peak muscular activity when hitting a driver-this is the equivalent of picking up a weight that can only be lifted 4 times before total fatigue. the golf swing depends on nearly every joint and muscle in the body and not adequately preparing will lead to only one result-injury and poor performance.

LiAM duGGAn GoLf professionAL

prepArATionIn carrying out the warm up we will look at a few key areas in the swing-the lower body, the upper body and core rotation.

Using a club for support, hold your foot and gently pull it back and up until you feel a stretch in the front of the thigh. hold for 30 seconds and swap sides.

Position one leg forward, one back . lower hips downward and forward flexing the front knee. repeat on both sides.

Bring the right ear toward the right shoulder. Repeat very slowly five times, and gently return your head and neck to neutral. repeat other side.

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SHorT gaMeconfidence and feel are our primary goals in warming up our short game. spend approx 15 minutes here if you can, it will pay dividends on the course

CHipping & piTCHing

In warming up around the greens, the key is to get a feel for how the course will play on the day. Pay close attention to how the ball is reacting-is it getting much spin on landing, how much is it rolling out. Knowing how the ball reacts will save you shots straight away and an up or down or two in the first few holes can really give you positive momentum.

puTTingin warming up the putter we really need to leave the green having achieved two objectives.

• Having a feel for the surface• Having confidence in holing out

I always suggest to my players that there are two keys to achieving this-use one golf ball only and never putt to a hole inside 6 feet. In using one ball you get out of the habit of dropping a ball and hitting a second if you miss. doing this typically gives you a skewed perception of feel and actually makes it more difficult to get a genuine feel for the green. Personally i like to hit my practice putts with my eyes closed once i have hit a dozen or so putts. in doing this your are totally relying on feel and not visual feedback, this quickly tells you just how good your touch is on the day. For shorter putts its vital to be confident and missing a three footer before you play will always instil doubt. Rather than putting to the hole, put a tee in the ground instead. using this as a target really makes you focus in on a small target without the consequences of missing. take this mental image of the tee behind the hole will make short putts a formality.

MenTal preparaTionAlthough we haven’t discuss the area of mentally preparing in detail, the process of pre round routine will take care of this itself. by taking the time to warm up, hit shots and get your game ready to play, you will enter the role of being a competitor and help develop the confidence needed to play your game to its potential. this time preparing is key to allow the body and mind settle down and enter into a place that allows you to play your best.

Hold a club behind your back, left hand on top right hand behind your back. pull up on the club and release. repeat 5 times and switch sides

With the swing being all about good rotation it is key to look at gently rotating of the bigger muscles. Place a club along the shoulders and in your address position, work on slowly rotating back and forward.

TeCHniCal preparaTionBefore we step on the golf course it is vital to have a clear understanding of where you swing is on the day and be confident in your ability. Too many times we go out and fail to play with what we have on the day, so your time in the range is vital to see where you are and how to manage it on the course. I always look to focus on two distinct areas-the long game and short game. long gaMeIn this part of the routine you need to get comfortable with your swing on the day and ease into your rhythm and pre shot routine

• start with short irons and move from half swing up to full shots

• hit 3-5 shots per club and work your way up incre-mentally . I prefer working on my odd numbered clubs.

• Be specific with your targets-you have a target on the course and the range is no different.

• pay attention to your ball flight on the day, this is what you will be playing with on the course photo 26

• keep instructional self talk to a minimum, this only leads to poor shots

• dial in your routine and focus externally. when you achieve this it becomes automatic photo 34 or 36

once you have gotten as far as the driver, mentally play the first three holes to prepare yourself for the course. this means hitting the shots you plan to hit on each of these holes you face. Always finish with the first hole as the last you play before you leave the range, it will help you get over any anxiety before the first tee!

Page 16: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

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Page 18: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

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ruLes QuiZ 2014

Hole 2While waiting to play from a bunker, John retrieved a rake from the back it. He smoothed over the footprints that he made in retrieving the rake, to ensure he left no indentations. He then walked towards his ball, which was lying at the front of the bunker. What is the ruling?

A - John incurs a penalty of two strokes for testing the condition of the bunker. B - John incurs no penalty as he was caring for the course and no improvement for his next stroke was made. C - John is disqualified.

Hole 1Deirdre’s ball lay in the rough close to the fairway, where she had interference from an immovable obstruction. In obtaining relief, Deirdre dropped the ball within one club-length of, and not nearer the hole, at the nearest point of relief onto the fairway. What is the ruling?

A - Deirdre is entitled to drop the ball on the fairway under Rule 24-2b. B - Deirdre is not entitled to drop the ball on the fairway and must drop the ball in the rough. C - Deirdre is only entitled to drop the ball on the fairway if she incurs a penalty of one stroke.

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Hole 3Paul’s tee shot was deflected left into the rough by a direction post that was situated on the fairway. What is the ruling? A - Paul has the option to cancel and replay the stroke. B - Paul incurs a penalty of one stroke and must replay the stroke. C - It is a rub of the green and the ball must be played as it lies.

Hole 4Joe was entitled to relief from an area of casual water. He determined his nearest point of relief correctly and dropped the ball within one club-length of that point, no nearer the hole. When he dropped the ball it landed within the one club-length area but it bounced towards him and struck his foot?

A - Joe incurs a penalty of one stroke for deflecting his ball in motion. B - Joe incurs a penalty of two strokes for influencing the movement of his ball. C - There is no penalty, provided the ball is re-dropped.

Hole 5Edel decided to mark, lift and clean her ball, but when she went to mark the position of her ball on the putting green, she could not find a ball-marker in her pocket. Instead she used the toe of her putter and placed it to the side of her ball and then lifted her ball to clean it. What is the ruling?

A - Edel incurs a penalty of one stroke for not marking the position of her ball. B - Edel incurs a penalty of two strokes for failing to use a ball-marker, coin or other similar object. C - There is no penalty.

Hole 6Due to an increase in the wind, David laid his golf bag parallel to the line of putt to shield the line from the sudden gusts of wind. He then made his stroke. What is the ruling?

A - David incurs a penalty of two strokes for taking an Action with the intent to influence the movement of the ball. B - David incurs a penalty of four strokes for improving the line of putt and accepting assistance. C - David is disqualified for not acting within the spirit of the rules.

Answers 1= A, 2= B, 3= C, 4 = C, 5 = C, 6= A, 7= C, 8= B, 9= A.

The irish cLuBhouse

Hole 7Peter struck his second shot towards a water hazard. Despite not having any knowledge or virtual certainty that his ball was in the hazard, he decided to play another ball at the spot from which the original was last played. He then found his original ball outside the hazard. What is the ruling?

A - Peter must continue with the original ball without penalty. B - Peter must continue with the original ball, under penalty of one stroke. C - The original ball is deemed lost and the second ball is the one in play under penalty of stroke and distance.

Hole 8Anne deemed her ball in a bush unplayable and, under Rule 28c, proceeded by dropping the ball within two club-lengths of the spot where it lay.The ball when dropped, it rolled and came to rest in another position within the same bush, where it was again unplayable. The ball was not nearer the hole and had not rolled more than two club-lengths from where it first struck a part of the course when dropped. What is the ruling? A - Anne must re-drop the ball as it has rolled into the same condition that relief was taken from. B - The ball is in play, and if Anne does not wish to play the ball as it lies she may invoke the unplayable ball rule again, incurring an additional penalty of one stroke. C - Anne must re-drop the ball under penalty of one stroke.

Hole 9Tom’s second shot finished just off the putting green. He noticed some pitch-marks on the putting green that were in his line of play, so he repaired them. He also tapped down an old hole plug on the green that was on his line of play. What is the ruling?

A - There is no penalty. B - Tom incurs a penalty of two strokes. C - Tom incurs a penalty of four strokes.

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If you’re looking for a great day out in June where you canget up close and personal with leading names in sport suchas Rory McIlroy, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell andDarren Clarke, there’s only one place to be –The Irish Open.Taking place from 19th – 22nd June 2014 in the stunningsurrounds of Fota Island Resort, The Irish Open will return to Cork after a 12 year absence where the Major Champions from Ireland will battle it out with their international peers for the famous Irish Open Trophy.

This original 18 hole golf course – The Deerpark – which wasdesigned by Irish Ryder Cup star, Christy O’Connor, Jr. andtwice English Amateur Champion, Peter McEvoy contains oneof the most beautiful and challenging holes in Irish Golf. TheSignature hole, the 18th, is a 530 yard narrow, par 5, with agreen surrounded on three sides by water.

The 18th island green is one of Ireland’s most picturesque and was chosen by Padraig Harrington as his favourite finishing hole.

“I don’t think you can get a more beautiful golf hole, thesetting is gorgeous. You get to the top of the hill and it isall presented to you, the clubhouse, the lake, mature trees,bunkers, shrubs, all magnificent. And doesn’t everybody likebeing faced with a downhill shot to a big green!”

Away from the golf, no trip to the Fota Island Resort would be complete without a visit to Fota Wildlife Park, with the crazycombination of golf and gibbons becoming happy bedfellowsfor one weekend only in Cork this June.

Tickets for the 2014 Irish Open offer great value for a fullday’s entertainment and are on sale priced at €30 for an AdultDay Ticket (€35 on the gate) and €70 for Adult Season Tickets(€80 on the gate). Children under 16 go free.

www.irishopen.ie

if you do one ThinG This June - heAd To corK for The irish open

picTuredPadraig Harrington with Michael Ring. Minister of State with special responsibility for Tourism and Sport (Department of Transport Tourism and Sport) and Tony Lenehan (Failte Ireland).

Page 21: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

THEY’REBACKTHE IRISH OPEN RETURNS TO CORK

FOTA ISLAND RESORT CORK, IRELAND JUNE 19TH - 22ND 2014

FOR TICKETS AND FURTHER INFORMATION, VISIT:www.irishopen.ie Tel: 1 890 252 698

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2222

The game of golf like many other sports is cur-rently seeing a challenge to its participation levels , a trend that is not just occurring here in Ireland but also around the globe. It has become increasingly difficult to attract and retain new players and this can be put down to several factors. Competition for that all important new participant from other sports, children opting to “play” on their computer or hand held device rather than get out and play sport, less expendable income and time constraints are some of these factors that have contributed to a declining and aging membership for most golf clubs. Traditionally the most common recruitment method to find a new younger player has been for an exist-ing golfing parent to encourage their Son or Daughter to give golf a go, which should always be applauded and long may that encouragement con-tinue. But how can we attract more people who do not come from a golfing background to take up our wonderful game and in the process increase the level of participation for the long term?

If we look at how other sports are tackling the same problem there certainly appears to be a common trend. Take rugby for example who ad-dressed this very issue several years back, they introduced a modified version of their game (mini rugby sometimes referred to as Leprechaun Rugby) to help them attract a younger audience and the results speak for themselves with partici-pation levels at the targeted age level dramati-cally increasing. Soccer is now using futsal, an-other modified version and the GAA’s Go Games incorporate the same philosophy. The theory is simple, create a developmentally appropriate version of an existing sport for new learners, make it fun and engaging so that they want to continue the experience. This is where we believe SNAG can help here in Ireland like it has in other countries by attracting that all important new participant into the game of golf. SO WHAT IS SNAG GOLF? SNAG which stands for Starting New at Golf is an innovative, first touch golf coaching system which has dramatically improved access to golf in the USA, Continental Europe, Korea, Japan New Zealand and Australia. It has proven to help in-crease participation due to its fun, easy and en-gaging equipment and programming. SNAG equipment provides the perfect introduction to how to play golf, helping to build up skills and confidence before playing the full game. The con-cept of creating an easier way to learn golf rather than using traditional methods came about when two ex-USPGA tour players got together and not only designed a range of innovative equipment but also formulated a new way in teaching that would revolutionise the way we are able introduce new learners to the game of golf.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE !

L

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The game of golf like many other sports is cur-rently seeing a challenge to its participation levels , a trend that is not just occurring here in Ireland but also around the globe. It has become increasingly difficult to attract and retain new players and this can be put down to several factors. Competition for that all important new participant from other sports, children opting to “play” on their computer or hand held device rather than get out and play sport, less expendable income and time constraints are some of these factors that have contributed to a declining and aging membership for most golf clubs. Traditionally the most common recruitment method to find a new younger player has been for an exist-ing golfing parent to encourage their Son or Daughter to give golf a go, which should always be applauded and long may that encouragement con-tinue. But how can we attract more people who do not come from a golfing background to take up our wonderful game and in the process increase the level of participation for the long term?

If we look at how other sports are tackling the same problem there certainly appears to be a common trend. Take rugby for example who ad-dressed this very issue several years back, they introduced a modified version of their game (mini rugby sometimes referred to as Leprechaun Rugby) to help them attract a younger audience and the results speak for themselves with partici-pation levels at the targeted age level dramati-cally increasing. Soccer is now using futsal, an-other modified version and the GAA’s Go Games incorporate the same philosophy. The theory is simple, create a developmentally appropriate version of an existing sport for new learners, make it fun and engaging so that they want to continue the experience. This is where we believe SNAG can help here in Ireland like it has in other countries by attracting that all important new participant into the game of golf. SO WHAT IS SNAG GOLF? SNAG which stands for Starting New at Golf is an innovative, first touch golf coaching system which has dramatically improved access to golf in the USA, Continental Europe, Korea, Japan New Zealand and Australia. It has proven to help in-crease participation due to its fun, easy and en-gaging equipment and programming. SNAG equipment provides the perfect introduction to how to play golf, helping to build up skills and confidence before playing the full game. The con-cept of creating an easier way to learn golf rather than using traditional methods came about when two ex-USPGA tour players got together and not only designed a range of innovative equipment but also formulated a new way in teaching that would revolutionise the way we are able introduce new learners to the game of golf.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE !

L

All of the attributes and details of conventional golf were taken into consideration during the design of the equipment and then this was linked to some re-markable training tools and new teaching methods to produce dramatic results. Designed to make skill acquisition as easy as possi-ble when learning golf, it is based on task focused learning. The words and the equipment provide the coach and the pupil with multi-sensory feedback. The colours are specifically chosen based on chromo psychology, aimed at creating a sense of fun to put the pupils at ease when learning to play golf. Charged with delivering success to SNAG Golf here in Ireland is Michael O’Keeffe who took the helm in late 2012. Since that time he has overseen several initiatives based on the SNAG philosophy that “there is a golfer inside everyone, only some don’t know it yet”. Michael explains “we are here to help anyone who wants to increase participation and build for a more sustainable future. For example we have seen real success by bringing golf out it’s traditional locations such as the club itself and taken the game to its in-tended target audience in locations such as Schools, Parks or even the beach. Once we are there we are able to show with SNAG that golf can be a fun, en-joyable and is an accessible sport that everyone can play no matter age or ability. The recipe for encour-aging this new audience to continue on the pathway to becoming a new golfer includes providing them with the opportunity to sample golf in an environment that puts them at ease, this new experience should contain fun elements to it so that it is enjoyable but crucially the participant must have gained a feeling of achievement and success, with SNAG we are able to do this and from this positive experience we can create a pathway back to the golf club where the new golfer can be nurtured and further developed and potentially be recruited as a new member”. SNAG Golf’s proven award winning System of learn-ing together with a structured pathway has seen it become a globally recognised leader in its field and is seen by many within the golf industry including icons such as Jack Nicklaus herald it as the future for bringing a new players into the game of golf. Over the next few issues of Irish Clubhouse we will be explaining more about who & what SNAG Golf is and how we can help and support your club in its plans to attract that all important new member. We will also update you on some exciting initiatives that are already in motion both here in Ireland and around the world which have seen the introduction of SNAG become a real driver for increased participa-tion numbers which ultimately will help us all to “grow the game of golf” More information on SNAG Golf can be found at www.snaggolf.ie

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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: [email protected] Web: www.douglasgolfclub.ie

Thursday Open Singles: €25

Early Bird Green Fee up to 9.30am

Pre booking essential

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Untitled-2 1 28/03/2014 17:44

cApTAins driVe inAT rinG of Kerry GoLf cLuB.

Pictured L to R: Kerry Federation Captain: Pat O’Dwyer, Lady Captain Nora May Harrington, Captain: Bart Van and President: Tom O’Driscoll.

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: [email protected] Web: www.douglasgolfclub.ie

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The success was all the more impressive as the sides that the north Cork lads faced contained the best young players from Ireland, England Scotland and Wales.

Mallow’s heroes consisted of players ranging in age from 14 to 18 with valuable points being recorded by all players during the four days of intense competition.

MALLowhoMe nATions chAMpions

picTuredBACk row l To r: (Team Manager) Bobby Howell, (Club Captain) Eamon O’Connell, Kevin O’Keeffe, Kieran O’Sullivan, Eoin Goggin, Conor Roche, Team Captain, Kevin Dowling, (Lady President) Eileen Cotter, (Mens President) Brian Wall.

froNT row: l To r: Edward Walsh, Greg Barrett, Liam Dowling, Roy Whelan.

Photograph by Asling O’Connor

Mallow’s Golf Club’s juvenile programme had its greatest success to date recently as the boys under 18 (Fred Daly Team) claimed the Home Nations Trophy at Antequera Golf Club in Spain.

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MALLowhoMe nATions chAMpions

Mallow qualified for the prestigious Spanish event after winning through seven rounds of competition last summer to claim the Munster Fred Daly title at West Waterford Golf Club.

They then progressed to the All-Ireland series in Claremorris where they were narrowly beaten by Greystones Golf Club, however the Wicklow side were unable to make the trip to Spain so Mallow stepped up to the plate and took home the title for Ireland.

The competition in Spain consisted of a round robin format over four days with one team from each country in each pool.

Mallow were drawn against Scottish champions Turnhouse on the opening day but lost out by 3 ½ to 2 ½.

Mallow responded in the best possible fashion and easily saw off English opposition (Wrag Barn) by 4 ½ to 1 ½ on day two.

Day three saw Mallow face one of the tournament favourites - Welsh champions Aberdale and again Mallow proved much too strong for the Dragons as they came through by 5 – 1.

The turn-around in fortunes in days two and three meant Mallow progressed to the final where they faced the-inform Irish champions Belvoir Park.

This was always going to be a tough test for the Cork boys as Belvoir Park had sauntered through their opening three fixtures with consummate ease, recording three wins. However sport has a way of flowing with momentum and Mallow definitely came into the final with momentum on their side.

Veteran at this grade, Eoin Goggin played at number one and got his side off to the perfect start – racing into a three-hole lead after only playing four.

Confidence flowed through the team after that with the ever reliable Kieran O’Sullivan, Edward Walsh, Conor Roche, Kevin O’Keeffe and Liam Dowling all taking commanding leads in their respective matches.

O’Sullivan in particular shone during this tournament as he won all four of his matches during the week.

Fourteen year old Edward Walsh also played superb golf to win his final match, 7 and 6 with Roche, O’Keeffe Dowling all winning their respective matches on the 15th.

The fantastic team performance, which secured the greatest win for Mallow Golf club in its 67 year history was all the more impressive when one considers that the team only got into the event on a wildcard.

Mallow’s young team are now a force to be reckoned with at this grade and with so many of the side that travelled to Spain eligible for the next few years it would be no surprise to see them reach for plenty more silverware in the near future.

Team Captain, Kevin Dowling was obviously delighted with his side’s success and felt it was the team ethic that made the win possible.“The lads were great all week. We have a side with terrific ability, with all concerned not only playing for themselves, their families and their clubs but most importantly for each other. I have to say without the help of Mick Collins (Mallow Golf Range) we would not have had half of the success we have had over recent years and we would definitely not have won the Home Nations. The boys and I are very grateful for his efforts over the years and especially in the weeks leading up to the tournament. His advice was a key component in the win.”

Dowling was clearly thrilled with the team’s success but wasted no time looking to the future and believes that this win might just be the start of things to come. “We lose Kevin O’Keeffe and Eoin Goggin from the team next year as they will be over age. They have been brilliant over the years and I am delighted to see them leave on such a high. However, some of the boys still have four years left at this grade and who knows what they can achieve after having a confidence boosting success like this so early in their careers.”

It’s easy to heap all the praise on the team but a young club side like this doesn’t get to represent their country abroad without significant help from the club.

“We all owe a great debt of gratitude to Mallow Golf Club for all the support and donations. There was a table quiz, and a raffle with local schools organising non uniform days in an attempt to raise the funds.

I would also like to give a special thank you to all of the parents who helped organise the trip, especially Mary and Joe Dowling for all the work they did in making the week special for all concerned. The team would also like to thank Bobby Howell and club Captain Eamon O’Connell and his wife for all their support in Spain.”

Dowling may have had six players performing heroics in the Spanish decider but he feels that this success was more about the whole team than individual brilliance.

“I think a lot of our success is down to the strength in depth of our team. The young lads Greg, Liam, Ed and Roy all settled into the team superbly in their first year and secured vital points along the way.

Greg got us into the Munster final after winning in extra holes in the semis, while Roy won two matches 7&6 in Spain. Both these players have a great future in this game – possessing an abundance of talent to go along with incredible maturity and sportsmanship. It was my privilege to be associated with them.”

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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 athmosphere

GreenFees & societies

- Greenfee and Society bookings being taken for 2014- Preferential group rates available- Internet special greenfee offers

open Days

MONDAYS: Open Ladies and Gents Seniors (50+) 10 euro entry.

THURSDAYS: Open Gents singles

SUNDAY 27TH APRIL: Junior Scratch Cup

TEAM OF 4 CLUB CLASSIC: Thurs 1st of May to Sun 4th of May 25 euro P.P.

OPEN FORTNIGHT: 27th of June to 30th July

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: [email protected]

Web: www.dungarvangolfclub.com

wesT wATerfordfeATures in ireLAnd’s Top Ten hidden GoLf courses

An idyllic rural setting makes west waterford one of the most peaceful golf courses you’ll ever play.

designed by Eddie Hackett, visitors will be treated to a course that lets the natural landscape do the talking – and here, just a couple of miles outside dungarvan, the volume has been turned up pretty loud.

staying true to what nature provided was one of Hackett’s key philosophies and it delivers one of the south east’s most relaxing and enjoyable rounds of golf.

South Munster Open Seniors 2nd Mayopen Gents Every wednesdayOpen Ladies 1st Thursday Each Month

open left HandersFri 25th/Sat 26th/Sun 27th AprilEntry €15 Grow Classic16th/17th & 18th May

friary Handball Classic9th/10th June

Special offer for April/MayGolf for 2 + Buggy

Midweek €50Golf & B&B in local hotel €99 Golf & B&B town centre €50

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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: [email protected]: www.GoldCoAsTGolfCluB.CoM

open Days

MONDAYS: Open Ladies and Gents Seniors (50+) 10 euro entry.

THURSDAYS: Open Gents singles

SUNDAY 27TH APRIL: Junior Scratch Cup

TEAM OF 4 CLUB CLASSIC: Thurs 1st of May to Sun 4th of May 25 euro P.P.

OPEN FORTNIGHT: 27th of June to 30th July

Entry FEE: €140

Monday 19th May, to Thursday 22nd May

rulEs & Format

Singles Competition, Stableford Points

Open to Ladies and Gents.

Handicap Limits:

Men 24, Ladies 36.

Participants must have certified Club Handicap, evidence of which may be required.

Best Two Scores over the 3 days.

Third card to count in event of tie.

Participants only eligible to win one daily prize.

PrizEs Each Day

Forty players to qualify for final in Gold Coast Golf Course in the following order:

-Top 5 overseas Ladies,

-Top 5 overseas Gents,

-Top 5 visiting Ladies,

-Top 5 visiting Gents,

-Next top 20 in order

of merit.

Scores carried forward to Final in Gold Coast

contact tournament Director @ 058 44055

Email: [email protected]

www.dungarvangolf.com

sEParatE comPEtitionThose who do not make it to the final will have a separate competition on the final day in the Gold Coast.

Dungarvan Golf Club is set against the backdrop of the

Comeragh Mountains and runs adjacent to Dungarvan

Bay. This Championship Parkland course has been

architectually designed with seven lakes and man made

hazards strategically placed to test all levels of golfer.

www.dungarvangolfclub.com [email protected]: 00 353 58 43310

Scenic and challenging 18 hole golf course bordered by

Atlantic ocean with unrivalled panoramic views of Dun-

garvan Bay and the Comeragh Mountains. At 6,788 yards

off the back tees, the course will present a real challenge

for the discerning golfer wishing to test his skill in a mag-

nificent and spectacular location.

tel: 00 353 58 44055www.goldcoastgolfclub.com [email protected]

The West Waterford Golf Club is built on 150 acres of

rolling parkland on the banks of the Brickey river with

the backdrop of the Comeragh Mountains to the east,

the Knockmealdowns to the north and Drum Hills to the

south. The Brickey river traverses the southern boundary

which makes this a very challenging golf course.

www.westwaterfordgolf.com [email protected]: 00 353 58 43216

€69 on sale in all three golf clubs - 3 courses for the Price of 2 - all within 5 minutes of town centre

Dungarvan golF trianglE

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This is a case study on Muskerry Golf Club. Powersavvy was engaged to do an analysis on the electricity usage at the club. The analysis identified that there was a steep increase in power consumption occurring at 2am every night which was running for 15 hours at the elevated level. The unknown appliance was contributing almost €200 per month to the bill. However nobody knew of any appliance that should be operating in this manner. Investigations identified the circuit breaker on the panel responsible for unknown appliance and when the trip switch was turned off, there was no apparent impact. Simply, leaving this switch off is saving almost €200 per month.

This is the power of the Powersavvy analysis. It uncovers all aspects of the electricity consumption and makes sure that purchased power is accounted for and used efficiently. This approach has been proven to be very effective in many types of businesses, including hotels, pubs, clubs, convenience shops, schools, etc.

Contact Colmpowersavvy limited,iiBC, GMiT, Castlebar, Co. MayoPhone: (094) 90 67099Mobile: 087 667 8007www.powersavvy.ie

“Helping you to be power savvy too”

power consuMpTion AnALysis

on the face of it, one might feel it is a little strange to have a feature on a non-golf related company in a golf magazine but we at irish Clubhouse feel this company could be a knight-in-shining-armour for clubs and other companies struggling to deal with rising energy costs.

Powersavvy (Electricity Management Specialists) helps companies save on electricity bills. It’s as simple as that. While there are plenty of companies out there with that mind-set, Powersavvy has already shown several golf clubs around the country that huge savings can be made by just monitoring power usage. Just ask Lucan, Newlands, Castle, Castlewarden, Headfort, Muskerry, Monkstown, Fermoy, Mallow and Charleville golf clubs what Powersavvy has done for them. Over the course of 2014 Powersavvy are going to give us a selection of case studies to show what they have done for golf clubs and non-golfing businesses around the country and they will also show just what they could do for you.

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power consuMpTion AnALysis

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“Putting is a game within the game” There are 100 different ways of putting, you just have to get the basic’s right and keep working at them. I believe every golfer no matter what level should be good putters. Improving on your putting stroke is the simplest way of lowering your score. Putting can accountable for nearly 40-50 percent of your total strokes in a round of golf and yet if we are to be honest most golfer’s will spend their time on the full swing.

MAriAn riordAnpuTTinG

aiMWhat we believe and what actually is can be two very different things. Aiming the putter and aligning the body to our intended target may seem simple but yet every day I see golfers who aim incorrectly. Overtime subsconiously the player will make compensation, either push or pull the ball to allow for this poor set up. Unfortunately this is not always repeatable and consistent especially when it is a “Got to Make putt”. Aiming the putter combined with good body alignment is easily improved.

The following fundamentals may seem simple or obvious, but as with all fundamentals it is important that you take the time to make sure you incorporate them into your putting. There are 2 main factors in putting. The first is distance control, which is determined by the amount of forward and backward swing of the putter. The second is direction which is determined by ensuring that the clubface is pointing to the hole at impact. These two factors are controlled by the players set up:

Know your gripThe player must position their hands on the club in such a way that it allows the face of the club to point to the target at address and at impact. The grip should run through the lifeline of the left hand this will help minimise any movement of the wrist. Therefore twisting of the club during the swing will be reduced. The player must swing the club in a pendulum motion, one that is smooth consistent and reliable under the clutch.

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puTTinG

praCTiCe good alignMenTSet up as shown above. Ensure feet hips and shoulders are parallel to the sticks. Square the face of the putter so that it is aiming to the target.Watch the putter swing back & forward through the sticks.A visual drill for developing a repeatable stroke.

The position of your eyes must be over the ball this will improve your aim very quickly. A direct eye-line over the ball will give the player a straight route from the ball to the intended target. Visualise the ball and the putter travelling on this route.

* The length of your putter can affect the position of your eyes over the ball. Get your PGA professional to check if the putter is too long or short for your individual height and set up. All putters can be customised to your set up without spending a fortune.

Always pick an intermediate target that is closer to you than the hole. This will help with your putter aim and alignment. We do this with all our other golf shots and there is no reason why we shouldn’t do the same for putting. A target that is 3 feet from you is much easier to set up and aim at, in comparison to a target that could be 40ft or more from you. Confidence comes from knowing that if you can roll the ball over the intermediate target assuming a good read and pace control you have a very good chance of holing the putt.

The most popular is the conventional overlap grip. Five simple steps in the image. There are many varied ways of placing your hands on the grip. None of which are better than the other once the fundamentals are in good order. Players must find through practice and experience what feels comfortable and works for them. A good grip will help maintain control of the putter head and return the putter head square to the target.

THe CluTCH puTTSet up 4 Tees 3FT from the hole and 4 tees 5ft from the hole. Using 1 ball you must make all 8 putts without missing. Set the Clock so that you have only 5 minutes on this station. Once the Alarm goes you must stop. Record the result so that you can measure your performance.

Structured Practice will always be set in a way that it will reflect pressure situations on the course.

Checking the basic fundamentals on Set up Aim Stroke Pace control Putter Fit

is always best done by your PGA Golf Professional. A trained set of eyes will ensure you that you are actually doing what you should be doing. A small improvement on your putting can have a big reduction on your score.

Ballykisteen Hotel & Golf Resort Limerick Junction, Co. Tipperary

T: 062 32 117 | E: [email protected]

W: ballykisteengolfclub.com

Open Singles €15 Every Monday & Wednesday

Visitors Welcome

diSTanCe ConTrolSet up 4 tees on the green10FT-----20FT-----30FT-----40FTUsing 4 balls putt to each tee. Learn and feel from each putt. Use it as a reference out on golf course to improve on pace control.

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Golf is the most over-taught and least-learned human endeavour; if they taught sex the way they teach golf, the race would have died out years ago.

(Jim Murray)

Golf is the only game in which a precise knowledge of the rules can earn one a reputation for bad sportsmanship.

(patrick Campbell)

Golf is like love. One day you think you are too old and the next day you want to do it again.

(roberto de Vicenzo)

Golf is the loneliest of games, not excluding postal chess.

(peter dobereiner)

Golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated.

(Arnold palmer)

Golf is, in part, a game; but only in part. It is also in part a religion, a fever, a vice, a mirage, a frenzy, a fear, an abscess, a joy, a thrill, a pest, a disease, an uplift, a brooding, a melancholy, a dream of yesterday, and a hope for tomorrow.

(New York Tribune (1916))

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)

GoLfinGQuoTes

“Golf is a funny game. It’s done much for health and at the same time has ruined people by robbing them of their peace of mind. Look at me, I’m the healthiest idiot in the world. “ - Bob Hope

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

(Heywood Hale Broun)

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)

Golf is not a game, it’s bondage. It was obviously devised by a man torn with guilt, eager to atone for his sins.

(Jim Murray)

Golf is not just an exercise; it’s an adventure, a romance... a Shakespeare play in which disaster and comedy are intertwined.

(Harold segall)

Golf is like a chain. You always have to work on the

weakest links.

(George Archer)

Golf is assuredly a mystifying game. It would seem that if a person has hit a golf ball correctly a thousand times, he should be able to duplicate the performance at will. But such is certainly not the case.

(Bobby Jones)

Golf is a diabolical game. It’s easy to make fun of something that’s so bizarre, so painful, so humiliating... yet so joyous.

(ken Green)

Golf is a game you can never get too good at. You can improve, but you can never get to where you master

the game. (Gay Brewer)

There are no absolutes in golf. Golf is such an individual game, and no two people swing alike.

(kathy whitworth)

Golf is a difficult game, but it’s a little easier if you trust your instincts. It’s too hard a game to try to play like someone else.

(Nancy lopez)

Golf is 20 percent talent and 80 percent management.

(Ben Hogan)

If there is one thing I have learned during my years as a professional, it is that the only thing constant about golf is its inconstancy.

(Jack Nicklaus)

“If the purpose of golf is purgatorial, nothing more needs to be said. But if the purpose is to entertain as well as instruct, then let us pause in the mad rush for hazards, more hazards and still more and fiercer hazards.” - William Hemingway

Page 36: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

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

Page 37: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

37

chuMAnn cheAnn siBéAL

ABBeyLeiX Ph. 057 8731450 www.abbeyleixgolfclub.ie

AdAre Ph. 061 605274 www.adaremanor.com

AdAre MAnor Ph. 061 396204 www.adaremanorgolfclub.com

ArdferT Ph. 066 7134744 www.ardfertgolfclub.com

ArKLow Ph. 0402 32492 www.arklowgolflinks.com

AThLone Ph. 0906492073 www.athlonegolfclub.ie

AThy Ph. 059 8631729 www.athygolfclub.com

BALBriGGAn Ph. 01 8412229 www.balbriggangolfclub.com

BALLinAsLoe Ph. 0909642126 www.ballinasloegolfclub.ie

BALLyBunion Ph. 068 27146 www.ballybuniongolfclub.ie

BALLyheiGue cAsTLe Ph. 066 7133555 www.ballyheiguecastlegolfclub.com

BALLyKisTeen Ph. 062 33333 www.ballykisteengolfclub.com

BALLyneeTyPh. 061351881www.ballyneetygolfclub.com

BALLyMoney Ph. 053 9421976 www.ballymoneygolfclub.com

BALTinGLAss Ph. 059 6481350 www.baltingglassgolfclub.ie

BAndon Ph. 023 8841111 www.bandongolfclub.com

BAnTry BAy Ph. 027 50579 www.bantrygolf.com

BeAVersTown Ph. 01 8436439 www.beaverstown.com

Beech pArK Ph. 01 4580522 www.beechpark.ie

BerehAVen Ph. 027 70700 www.berehavengolf.com

Birr Ph. 057 9121606 www.birrgolfclub.com

BLAinroe Ph. 0404 68168 www.blainroe.com

BLArney Ph. 021 4516472 www.blarneygolfclub.ie

BodensTown Ph. 045 45897096 www.bodenstown.com

BrAy Ph. 031 2763200 www.braygolfclub.com

BuncLody Ph. 053 9374444 www.bunclodygfc.ie

cAhir pArK Ph. 052 7441474 www.cahirparkgolfclub.com

cALLAn Ph. 056 7725136 www.callangolfclub.com

cArLow Ph. 059 9131695 www.carlowgolfclub.com

cArTon house Ph. 01 5052000 www.cartonhouse.com

cArricK-on-suir Ph. 051 640047 www.carrickgolfclub.com

cAsTLe Ph. 014904207 www.castlegc.ie

cAsTLe BArnA Ph. 057 9353384 www.castlebarna.ie

cAsTLecoMer Ph. 056 4441139 www.castlecomergolf.com

cAsTLeGreGory Ph. 066 7139444 www.castlegregorygolflinks.com

cAsTLeisLAnd Ph. 066 7141709 www.castleislandgolfclub.com

cAsTLeKnocK Ph. 01 6408736 www.castleknockgolfclub.ie cAsTLeMArTyr Ph. 021 4219001 www.castlemartyrresort.ie

cAsTLerosse Ph. 064 6631144 www.castlerosse.com

cAsTLeTroy Ph. 061 335753 www.castletroygolfclub.ie

cAsTLewArden Ph. 01 4589254 www.castlewardengolfclub.ie

ceAnn siBeAL Ph. 066 9156255 www.dinglelinks.com

chArLesTown Ph. 01 4589254 www.castlewardengolfclub.ie

cLonMeL Ph. 052 6124050 www.clonmelgolfclub.com cLonTArf Ph. 01 8331892 www.clontarfgolfclub.ie

co MeATh Ph. 046 9431463 www.countymeathgolfclubtrim.ie

co TipperAry Ph. 062 71717 www.dundrumhousehotel.com

coBh Ph. 021 4812399 www.cobhgolfclub.ie

corK Ph. 021 4353451 www.corkgolfclub.ie

currAGh Ph. 045 441714 www.curraghgolf.com

deLGAny Ph. 01 2874536 www.delganygolfclub.com

donerAiLe Ph. 022 24137 www.donerailegolfclub.com

dooKs Ph. 066 9768205 www.dooks.com

doonBeG LinKs Ph. 065 9055246 www.doonbeglodge.com

droMoLAnd Ph. 061 368444 www.dromolandgolf.com

druids GLen Ph. 01 2870800 www.druidsglenresort.com dun LAoGhAire Ph. 01 2721866 www.dunlaoghairegolfclub.ie

GoLf cLuBs

chArLeViLLePh. 063 81257www.charlevillegolf.com

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GoLf cLuBsdunGArVAn Ph. 058 43310 www.dungarvangolfclub.com

dunMore Ph. 023 8834644 www.dunmoregolfclub.ie

dunMore eAsT Ph. 051 383151 www.dunmoreeastgolfclub.ie

dunMurry sprinGs Ph. 045 531400 www.dunmurrysprings.ie

eAsT cLAre Ph. 061 921322 www.eastclare.com

eAsT corK Ph. 021 4631687 www.eastcorkgolfclub.com

ennis Ph. 065 6824074 www.ennisgolfclub.com

fAiThLeGG Ph. 051 380587www.faithlegggolfclub.com

fernhiLL Ph. 021 4372226 www.fernhillcountryclub.com

ferMoy Ph. 025 32694 www.fermoygolfclub.ie frAnKfieLd Ph. 021 4363124 www.frankfieldgolfclubmembers.com

GALwAy BAy Ph. 091 790711 www.galwaybaygolfresort.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

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

Lee VALLey Ph. 021 7331721 www.leevalleygolfclub.com

LiMericK Ph. 061 415146 www.limerickgolfclub.ie

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

MiLLTown Ph. 01 4125972 www.milltowngolfclub.ie

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 JuLieT Ph. 056 7773071 www.mountjuliet.ie/golf

MounTAin View Ph. 056 7768122 www.mviewgolf.com

nAAs Ph. 045 897509 www.naasgolfclub.com

nenAGh Ph. 067 31476 www.nenaghgolfclub.com

MonKsTown Ph. 021 4841376 www.monkstowngolfclub.com MusKerry Ph. 021 4381445 www.muskerrygolfclub.ie

newcAsTLe wesT Ph. 069 76500 www.newcastlewestgolf.com

pArKnAsiLLA Ph. 064 6645195 www.parknasillahotel.ie/golf rAffeen creeK Ph. 021 4512624 www.raffeencreekgolfclub.com rAThBAne Ph. 061 313655 www.rathbanegolfclub.com

rAThdowney Ph. 0505 46170 www.rathdowneygolfclub.com

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 shAnnon Ph. 061 471849 www.shannongolfclub.ie

sKeLLiGBAy Ph. 066 9474133 www.skelligbay.com

KiLLorGLinPh: 0669761979. email: [email protected] Web: www.killorglingolf.ie

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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 The oLd heAd Ph. 021 4778444 www.oldhead.com

TipperAry Ph. 062 51119 www.tipperarygolfclub.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

wicKLow Ph. 0404 67379 www.wicklowgolfclub.ie

wiLLiAMsTown Ph. 051 853131 www.waterfordcity.ie

woodenBridGe Ph. 0402 35202www.woodenbridge.ie

woodsTocK Ph. 065 6829463 www.woodstockgolfclub.com

youGhAL Ph. 024 92787 www.youghalgolfclub.ie

If your club isn’t included in our listings, then please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] and we’ll include your club on our next issue.

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THE TrAMorePh. 051 386170www.tramoregolfclub.com

Page 40: Irish clubhouse april may 2014

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