Royal Curragh
Royal Curragh
In 2013, The Curragh uncovered proof that it was the oldest golf
club on the island. They used that opportunity to revive their ‘Royal’
prefix. It has given a unique club a deservedly higher profile.
The free-draining soil means play is possible all year round, although
the spring/summer months may prove most attractive when the
gorse is in full bloom. It is both alluring and a fair warning of the risks
of going too far offline. Realistically, that shouldn’t happen as there
is space to play. There are plenty of changes in elevation and those
bumpy, heathland-like fairways and natural greens mean every single
shot is an adventure. The sheep that once roamed the course are
now mere spectators.
Athlone
An old and mature parkland in the heart of the Midlands,
Athlone rests on the edge of Lough Ree. The lake squeezes the
course on two sides but only comes into play on a couple of late
holes. It matters little for Athlone is a sweet parkland promising
a tree-lined landscape that has some intriguing shapes: the 1st
is a wonderful welcome, its high tee and high green overlook
the fairway below; and the par four 13th doglegs over a buckled
terrain of eskers that has to be seen to be believed. These are just
two holes but they amply illustrate the adventure and challenges
of Athlone.
50
Greenore
Greenore sits on the Cooley Peninsula, curving around
Carlingford Lough, where an old train line mirrors the shape
of the beach below. Several front nine tee boxes sit up here,
promising tempting shots to the fairways and greens below.
This is mostly a flat, open course with some links-like undulations
close to the sea and matchstick-like pines soaring above holes
closer to the clubhouse. It is a fun mix in an attractive setting
where water features threaten often. So, too, does the wind.
Expect a big day with the driver and with so much space you’ll
want to open your shoulders.
Woodenbridge
Running low through a spectacularly wooded valley,
Woodenbridge is almost overwhelmed by the peaceful beauty
all around it. Two rivers weave through the course, adding to that
beauty but also adding to the challenges, and you have to cross
one of these rivers to reach the clubhouse. It’s the sort of start
that fills you with anticipation. This is as sweet and relaxing a
golf setting as you could ask for. It is also a short, mostly straight
course (par 71, 6,341 yards, back tees) so you’ll feel ambitious
stepping onto the 1st tee. But… the greens here can easily make a
fool of you.