Waterford
Tramore
This old club recently received a major dash of revitalisation,
completed by Jeff Howes in 2012. New greens and bunkering
were the focus on a flowing parkland with impressive stands of
trees enshrining holes. Despite these trees – and the water – it
still manages to feel airy. This is a smart, quality parkland where
the challenges come in all shapes and sizes. The par four 17th,
for example, is just 316 metres (middle white tees) but it is Index
5 with trees crowding the tee box, and, while you’ll fancy your
birdie chances on the four par fives (430 to 460 metres), don’t
be fooled: Tramore has plenty of surprises in store. Howes also
added an extra nine holes.
Mallow
Established in 1947, Mallow is a gentle hillside parkland poised
above the town. Trees dominate, many of them ancient and
majestic, and it is these that help to define the course. But
beware the many sloping and often narrow fairways that will
lure your ball towards the rough. It will also leave challenging
approach shots to greens in enchanting settings. The Galty
Mountains provide the backdrop on a curvaceous, surprisingly
challenging course that calls for accuracy off the tee.
Waterford
This distinguished old parkland tumbles down the side of a mostly
gentle hill. ‘Mostly’ because the 18th promises a steep descent and
the most intimidating approach shot of the day. Holes sweep over
lilting terrain and through lines of evergreen, hawthorn and oak. The
trees certainly get close on occasion but this is an inviting and short
course so it’s a round to be enjoyed, from start to finish. The course
owes its design to James Braid and Willie Park Jr, so you’re talking old
school charm and challenges. Sweet par threes.
98
The course owes its
design to James Braid
and Willie Park Jr.