Destination Golf - June 2017 * | Page 83

Aran Islands can be accessed by ferry from Doolin. It has been described as ‘The St Andrews of Ireland’ and many other complimentary titles. Those who know and love the place firmly believe that Lahinch Golf Club doesn’t need comparison with any of the game’s other world class venues. The Golf Links is unique in its proximity to the village with its long sandy beach, world class surfing, bathing, glorious views, atmospheric pubs and restaurants and the warm welcome extended by the townspeople. Lahinch is also a key destination on the Wild Atlantic Way, on the edge of the Burren National Park (UNESCO recognised Global and European Geopark) and only 10km from one of the world’s natural wonders, the Cliffs of Moher. The Old Course, at 6,725 yards and par 72, is a true championship links developed from the outset by Old Tom Morris and followed by Charles “Mo” Gibson, Dr. Alister McKenzie and in more recent times, Dr. Martin Hawtree. It is home to Ireland’s oldest amateur championship, The South of Ireland, which was first played in 1895. The Old Course is consistently ranked in the Top 50 Golf Courses of the World and is No. 4 in Ireland’s Top 100 Golf Courses. The challenges presented by the course depend on the diverse weather conditions of the Atlantic Ocean. Many of the world’s greatest golfers visit Lahinch in preparation for The Open Championship and some have gone on to raise the Claret Jug. Lahinch Golf Club is renowned for the way the links has retained all of its old virtues. It has benefited from the willingness, over the decades, to move with the times and is now regarded as one of the best and most enjoyable challenges to be found anywhere in the golfing world. The legendary Old Tom Morris set the highest standards for the course from the outset. He was followed by equally celebrated architects Charles ‘Mo’ Gibson and Dr Alister MacKenzi, who Volume 3 • Issue 39 83