intrigue , variety and pace and offer a different links experience to the nearby Royal Portrush and Portsewart – it is often referred to another one of the famous Northern Ireland Causeway Coast gems .
The Championship Mussenden Course is a par 73 with five par-5 ’ s , four par-3 ’ s , and nine par- 4 ’ s . Recently upgraded with new 1st and 18th holes , Castlerock is a strong test of golf . The best-known hole is the fourth , called the Leg o ’ Mutton , a 200 yard par-3 with a railway line to the right , a burn to the left and a raised green . Additionally the 9 hole Bann course has widened the appeal of the Club and contains a par-5 which has been described as “ one of the most scenic holes in Irish golf .”
The recently developed Practice area comprises of extensive general practice tee combined with a specifically designed and constructed short game area .
The pre-existing practice ground underwent considerable ground-shaping and contouring to create gentle slopes and mounds to compliment the magnificent sand dunes in the background . A two-tier green with two bunkers was constructed to a very high specification , including a full watering system . The fairway and surrounds were turfed and local native grasses used to blend the development into the surrounding area . Around the green are a number of chipping mats , again blended into the surrounding turf .
After a hard game on the links , the 19th hole at Castlerock provides the perfect rest bite . Visitors to Castlerock are always in awe of the exceptional views offered from the spacious clubhouse setting . It ’ s home from home clubhouse environment means that the visiting golfer will be welcomed with a smile from the friendly staff . For a sumptuous dinner with a wide range of choice , ‘ The Kitchen ’ Restaurant in the Clubhouse is well worth a visit , open 7-days a week .
In the words of Kevin Markham , “ there are flat holes and bumpy holes , doglegs and blind spots … plateau greens , hidden greens and sweet bunkering .. it is a heady mix that challenges and entertains all day long ”. “ The 8th is an absolute beast ”.
In 2015 , Castlerock was awarded Hidden Gem of Northern Ireland and its General Manager , Bert McKay was awarded General Manager of the Year . None of this surprises the members or local golfers who are lucky to frequent this golf club .
Northern Ireland golfing is a stern test of both ability and endurance and the pleasures of a links game is no longer a mystery . The only question remains , are you up for a true links challenge ?
Website : www . castlerockgc . co . uk Email : info @ castlerockgc . co . uk Facebook : www . facebook . com / CastlerockGolfClub / Twitter : www . twitter . com / castlerockgc
Volume 3 • Issue 37 71