A Great Place To Play, A Great Place - Backspin Golf Magazine

THE LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF CENTREʼS COMPLIMENTARY MAGAZINE 

Issue No. 7 Summer/Autumn 2010 

‘A Great Place to Play, A Great Place to Stay’ 

– Rory McIlroy, Lough Erne Resort's Touring Professional 

Photo of 16th hole - ‘Faldo Turn’ - at Lough Erne Resort 

See story on Page 7 

AIB Ladies Irish Open launches the countdown to the 

2011 Solheim Cup match at Killeen Castle 

Anne Weir’s Captain’s Day the showpiece event in a 

busy calendar for the Leopardstown Ladies Golf Club 

Improve your game with the centre’s resident professionals 

Suzann Pettersen – see page 3 

Focus on new look Leopardstown Centre golf course

Issue No. 7 

Summer / Autumn 2010 

Contents 

FEATURES 

3 AIB Ladies Irish Open 

The countdown to the 2011 Solheim Cup at Killeen 

Castle begins in earnest with the 2010 AIB Ladies Irish 

Open taking place on prime dates in August (6th-8th) 

at this Jack Nicklaus signature course in Co. Meath. 

Right: The Maguire twins will take part in the AIB Ladies Irish Open 

8 Leopardstown Golf Course 

A golf course enhancement programme involving 

improvements to the tees, greens and bunkers has 

transformed the lovely Leopardstown course. 

Penina 

LADIES GOLF FOCUS 

* Attractive holiday options in 

Portugal, Spain and Malaysia 

* Ole! Glenda Grehan crowned 

Leopardstown/Spanish G.O.Y. 

Left: Spotlight on famous Penina Resort on page 15. Right: Leopardstown GOY 

Glenda Grehan with Jose Manuel de Juan (Spanish Tourist Board). See page 5. 

Lough Erne Resort 

– See page 7 

OTHER FEATURES 

* Savour a great experience at 

5-star Lough Erne Resort 

* Focus on golf in Killarney 

and Ireland’s Garden County 

* Top tips from professionals 

Michael Allan & John Langan 

Publisher / Editor 

Declan O’Donoghue 

Production 

Esther Behan 

Advertisement Sales 

The Golf Business 

Next issue 

Winter 2010 

THE LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF CENTREʼS COMPLIMENTARY MAGAZINE 

is produced by THE GOLF BUSINESS 

Offices (Editorial, Advertising & Accounts) 

“Birkdale,” 4, Rathmichael Manor, Loughlinstown, Co. Dublin 

Tel: 01-282 7269 Fax: 01-282 7483 Email: golfbiz@eircom.net 

Website: www.backspingolfmagazine.com 

The Golf Business also produces Backspin golf magazine, Portugal Pure Golf 

Country and the Irish Ladies Golf Union’s championship magazine. 

Printers 

Impression Print & Design 

Print Run 

3,500 copies per issue 

Distribution 

Free at the Golf Centre 

The Golf Business assumes no responsibility 

for the contents or accuracy of advertisements 

appearing in Leopardstown Golf News 

or for any offers advertised in the magazine. 

LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF NEWS 1

1 

says resident PGA professional MICHAEL ALLAN 

Hitting baskets of golf balls is an ideal way of loosening-up, developing muscle memory 

and grooving your swing, but what about bringing more variety and purpose to the 

time that you spend on the driving range? 

In this article Pure Golf Leopardstown PGA professional Michael Allan explains four 

simple warm-up drills you can perform on the range that are designed to make your 

practice sessions more productive which, in turn, should lead to game improvement. 

TENSION DRILL (Picture 1) 

Tension destroys a golf swing. There’s a simple drill that can relieve tension. Take your 

normal address position and point the butt of the club at the tee. With the club feeling 

much lighter it will be possible to create more freedom in your swing. This will release 

tension in the forearms and wrists. Forearm rotation and wrist cock are an integral part 

of the swing and these manoeuvres are difficult to achieve with tension. Perform this drill 

after every 30 or 40 balls you hit on the range to monitor tension levels. 

SWAY (Picture 2) 

Try warming-up by hitting balls with your feet together. If you sway from this position 

you will lose your balance. It’s a great drill for working on the timing of the hands and 

arms rotating around a central position. 

POSTURE AT ADDRESS (Picture 3) 

Many club golfers adopt either a ‘C’ spine or ‘S’ spine angle over the ball. A neutral 

position at address is best. Use the mirrors in the driving range. Simply place a club along 

your spine and maintain that spine angle by tilting from the hips. If you have a neutral 

spine angle your core muscles are engaged, which increases stability and power in the 

swing. 

TOPPING AND DUFFING (Picture 4) 

One of the major factors in topping or duffing shots is loss of posture during the swing. 

Take a 5-iron address position and place the club across your shoulders. From there rotate 

your left shoulder under your chin. In this position you will maintain your posture leading 

to better ball striking. 

2 

3 4 

2 LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF NEWS

One of the strongest fields ever assembled 

for a professional golf event in Ireland 

will attract huge crowds to the AIB 

Ladies Irish Open at spectacular Killeen Castle 

Golf Club in Dunsany, Co. Meath, from August 

6th-8th. It is also a glorious opportunity for 

spectators to marvel at the venue for The 2011 

Solheim Cup. 

There will be no fewer than seventeen 

Solheim Cup players in action. The American 

challenge will be spearheaded by the charismatic 

and extrovert Christina Kim, who made a huge 

impact at the last Solheim Cup in Chicago. 

Fellow team members Angela Stanford, Brittany 

Lang, Kristy McPherson and Brittany Lincicome 

will add firepower to the Stateside assault. 

The scene is set for a great battle with a 

formidable European entry led by Suzann 

Pettersen, who won the event in 2008, Anna 

Nordqvist, Laura Davies, Catriona Matthew, the 

2009 British Open champion, Sophie Gustafson, 

who is a past multiple winner of the Ladies Irish 

Open, Maria Hjorth, and Helen Alfredsson, the 

2007 Solheim Cup captain. 

Diana Luna will return to defend her title just 

a few months after giving birth to her first child 

Elena, while rising stars Gwladys Nocera, Tania 

Elosegui and Becky Brewerton will also harbour 

high expectations. 

Team Ireland will be represented by tour 

players Hazel Kavanagh, Rebecca Coakley, US 

based Alison Walsh, Martina Gillen and Tara 

Delaney. 

The participation of Ireland’s three latest 

Curtis Cup players - Danielle McVeigh and the 

amazing Maguire twins, Leona and Lisa - will 

add an exciting dimension to the event. 

There will also be great interest in the 

performance of 15-year-old American star Alexis 

Thomson, who turned professional after making 

her Curtis Cup debut in June. 

For event details and spectator information 

visit www.aibladiesirishopen.ie 

Top: Suzann Pettersen 

Above: Christina Kim 

Right: The Maguire twins. 

Photos courtesy of the 

event promoters 

Twenty Eleven ILGPL 

Great feast of golf for spectators at the 

The countdown begins to The 2011 Solheim Cup at Killeen Castle 


1 

by resident PGA professional JOHN LANGAN 

In this article Pure Golf Leopardstown PGA professional 

John Langan explains three simple drills that should 

transform your short game. If you become more consistent 

around the greens your entire game will benefit. 

SET-UP (Picture 1) 

To commence this drill raise your right foot off the ground 

which will help you to find your posture. When you place 

your right foot back on the ground try to feel 80% of your 

weight on your left foot. The centre of your chest (sternum) 

should be ahead of the ball and stays there throughout the 

shot. Your ball position should be 1” inside your left heel. 

Your feet should be close together for all chip shots. This is 

an ideal set-up position for shots around the green. 

ELIMINATE WRIST ACTION (Picture 2) 

A simple way to eliminate wrist action on short shots is to let 

the club swing with your left hand only. Then add the right 

hand to the club and make the same movement. The left arm 

and shaft of the club function as one unit. 

BRUSHING THE GRASS (Picture 3) 

In this drill I’m looking to brush the grass with the clubhead 

on the piece of white tape after I strike the ball. Be conscious 

of where you’re brushing the grass. Keep the clubhead low to 

the ground after striking the ball and trust the loft of the club 

to get the ball airborne. 

2 3 


Email your news items and 

hi-resolution jpeg photos to 

golfbiz@eircom.net 

SPANISH TOURISM CROWN 

G.O.Y. GLENDA GREHAN 

Glenda Grehan, a member of the Thursday 

Tigers society, topped a field of 48 

finalists to win 1st prize in the Leopardstown 

Lady Golfer of the Year competition, which 

was sponsored by the Spanish Tourist Board. 

Following a qualification process that 

commenced last October, two players 

represented each society in the grand final at 

the end of May 

At a Spanish-themed prizegiving ceremony 

in The Green Room Restaurant, Glenda was 

presented with a weekend in Catalunya 

including two rounds of golf at Portaventura 

courtesy of the Spanish Tourist Board in 

Ireland and the Catalunya Tourist Board in 

London. 

Above: Glenda Grehan 

(Thursday Tigers), winner 

of the Leopardstown Ladies 

Golfer of the Year title, is 

presented with her prize by 

Gemma Guitart (Catalan 

Tourist Board) and Jose 

Manuel de Juan (Managing 

Director, Spanish Tourist 

Office, Dublin). 

Left: Jose Manuel de Juan 

with another prizewinner, 

Kay Kennedy. 

Right: Also amongst the 

prizewinners was Shirley 

Marshall. 

Green Room Restaurant perfect for 

special events and casual dining 

The Green Room Restaurant at the Golf Centre sets 

exceptionally high standards across all spectrums of 

hospitality with excellent cuisine, friendly and efficient service, a 

welcoming atmosphere and attractive prices proving to be a 

winning formula for manager Mary Curran and her team. 

The bright, comfortable and spacious restaurant is ideal for 

casual dining before or after a round of golf and it is also gaining 

a glowing reputation as a perfect venue for a variety of social and 

family occasions. The restaurant accommodates 100 people in 

comfort and it can be sectioned off to cater for groups of all sizes. 

For bookings contact marycurran17@hotmail.com 

THE GREEN ROOM 


06 

Email your news items and 

hi-resolution jpeg photos to 

golfbiz@eircom.net 

CHERVO BRAND IS 

VERY APPEALING 

The Chervo brand name is 

synonymous with elegant 

fashions and accessories and the 

Chervo outlet which opened at 

the golf centre earlier this year 

is attracting a growing clientele. 

Pictured right are Chervo sales 

advisors Sheila Broadberry and 

Petra Maier. 

Pictured below enjoying a 

round of golf at the centre 

recently were friends Avril 

Davis, Jacquie Hutchinson and 

Dolores Kennedy, all members 

of the Saturday Swifts society. 

BUSY RACING CALENDAR 

AT LEOPARDSTOWN 

There will be a busy calendar of 

racing fixtures at Leopardstown 

Racecourse between August and 

December. Here is the full schedule... 

AUGUST 

Thursday 5th - Evening Meeting 

Thursday 12th - Evening Meeting 

SEPTEMBER 

Saturday 4th - Irish Champion Stakes 

OCTOBER 

Monday 25th - Killavullan Stakes 

Sunday 31st - November Handicap 

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 

Sun - Wed 26th-29th December 

www.leopardstown.com 

2009 SUMMER ISSUE €3.75 incl. VAT 

Focus on 

Royal Birkdale 

DISCOVER ENGLAND’S GOLF COAST 

SLAM BECKONS FOR 

MASTER CABRERA 

I S S N 1393 - 9122 

9 771393 912010 

INSIDE: TIGER CLOSES-IN ON JACK’S MAJOR RECORD 

THE IRISH GOLF MAGAZINE 

WITH REAL BITE! 

An established & influential part 

of Irish golfing life since 2000 

www.backspingolfmagazine.com 

2010 SUMMER ISSUE €3.75 incl. VAT 

with Pat Cashman 

Japanese star 

Ryo Ishikawa 

SPECIAL FEATURE ON PGA CATALUNYA RESORT IN SPAIN 

9 771393 912010 

06 

ISS N 1 393 - 9 122 


An aerial view of 

Lough Erne Resort 

‘A Great Place to Play, A Great Place to Stay’ 

Lough Erne Resort is the product of 

a union of great golfing minds. 

Proprietor Jim Treacy’s vision for a 

glorious expanse of land in County 

Fermanagh and champion golfer Nick 

Faldo’s experience and passion for the 

game have produced a truly spectacular 

golfing landscape. 

Lough Erne Resort has attracted instant 

international acclaim and The Resort is 

proud to have rising superstar Rory 

McIlroy as its touring professional. 

Rory has featured in a number of high 

profile exhibition matches which have 

showcased The Resort to a massive 

audience, the latest being the 2010 Lough 

Erne Challenge presented by Lakelands & 

Inland Waterways in July when he teamedup 

with Darren Clarke against Padraig 

Harrington and Shane Lowry. 

The Resort is home to two 

championship golf courses. The 

centrepiece is The Faldo Course, designed 

by the six-time Major champion Nick 

Faldo. It is an exciting challenge for golfers 

of all abilities with 18 spectacular holes. 

The routing of the course takes full 

advantage of the natural topography and 

provides golfers with superb all year round 

playing conditions. 

The Resort will further expand its Five- 

Star Golfing Experience with the opening 

of The Faldo Academy in September 2010. 

It will be a state-of-the-art practice and 

tuition facility headed up by Lynn 

McCool, Director of Golf & Head 

Professional at Lough Erne Resort. There 

will be a comprehensive range of tuition 

packages available including individual 

and corporate tuition with video analysis, 

on-course tuition with a PGA Professional, 

golf clinics, tailored golf packages and 

group clinics. 

Lough Erne Resort has superb facilities 

RORY McILROY 

and it is a perfect venue whether you are 

planning to combine business with 

pleasure or if you simply wish to enjoy a 

relaxing golfing break with friends in 

luxurious surroundings. 

There are 120 luxury rooms and suites, 

a Thai Spa offering golfers treatments to 

raise your game, and a choice of six 

spacious meeting rooms offering event 

– Rory McIlroy, Lough Erne Resort’s Touring Professional 

organisers various options for meetings, 

conferences and corporate gatherings. 

Guests can also enjoy a variety of 

innovative dining experiences with menus 

prepared by acclaimed chef, Noel McMeel. 

The Catalina Restaurant overlooking the 

Lough is ideal for elegant dining, while 

The Loughside Bar & Grill is designed for 

casual all day dining and afternoon teas in 

The Garden Hall. 

The Halfway House, situated behind 

the ninth green of The Faldo Course, 

allows golfers to take a relaxing break 

from play. 

After your round you can relax in 

comfort in The Blaney Bar, which offers an 

exclusive collection of 101 Irish whiskies. 

Outdoor activities include Fly Fishing 

for Pike on Castle Hume Lough with 

resident Game Angling instructor Packie 

Trotter. 

Lough Erne Resort is located within 

two hours drive from the Leopardstown 

Golf Centre. Once there, you’ll tend to find 

that time stands still. 

You can book your tee-time and golf 

break online at www.lougherneresort.com 

The 6th hole - ‘Collop Rise’ 

Photos courtesy of Lough Erne Resort 


The 1st fairway and tour-spec 

short game practice area 

Commitment to high standards at Leopardstown Centre is 

Dave Walby 

The new-look 15th hole with 

horseshoe grass bunker 

8 LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF NEWS 

The results and benefits of a huge 

investment in taking the famous 

Leopardstown Golf Centre to a new 

level in recent years are evident across all 

spectrums of the operation with state-of-theart 

facilities, technology and services offering 

patrons the total golf experience. 

Of course, an important element in the 

transformation of the complex into one of 

Europe’s finest game improvement centres is 

the 18-hole golf course which has been given 

a complete makeover and work continues all 

the time to ensure that it is presented and 

maintained in top condition. 

It is probably the busiest golf course in the 

country with the 25 affiliated ladies golf 

societies generating as many as 2,500 rounds 

per week at peak periods, while other groups, 

societies and casual visitors also create a 

significant volume of traffic. 

The whole landscape of the 60-acre site has 

changed dramatically in recent years and head 

greenkeeper Dave Walby and his team are 

delighted with the way that the course has 

evolved following a detailed programme of 

improvements and refinements which began 

with the installation of a modern watering 

system. 

New tees are a feature on six holes on the 

back nine and new contoured greens have 

been introduced on the 4th, 6th, 9th, 10th, 

12th and 15th holes. 

Five holes on the back nine have been 

lengthened and when work is complete on the 

challenging 10th hole it will be played from a 

new tee box presently under construction to a 

target 455 yards away. 

Another striking feature is the work 

carried-out on the bunkers, all of which have 

been drained, reshaped and transformed into 

strategically positioned obstacles that 

concentrate the mind during a round. 

From a cosmetic viewpoint close to 800 

trees and shrubs have been planted in the last 

two years. This has introduced a new 

dimension to many holes and brings greater 

definition to the course in general.

A great passion for the game shines 

through in Dave Walby’s approach to his 

work as head greenkeeper. A 7-handicapper, 

he has been working at the Leopardstown 

Golf Centre since the mid-1990’s and 

previously spent eleven years at Bray Golf 

Club, where his popular father Mick served as 

the PGA professional for many years. 

Great credit is also due to Dave Walby’s 

experienced and dedicated greenkeeping team 

at the Leopardstown Golf Centre which 

includes longserving staff member Charles 

O’Driscoll and his son Graham, Stephen 

Druhan and Alan Conway. 

A typical working day for the team during 

the summer season would commence shortly 

after sunrise with fairways, tee boxes, greens 

and surrounds requiring regular attention 

while the rough is cut twice a week. 

Much of the hard work has now been 

completed in terms of upgrading the golf 

course. With so much traffic week in week out 

and with our unpredictable climate, the main 

focus now for the greenkeeping team is 

maintaining the course in fine condition. 

Meantime, work continues on subtle 

improvements to enhance the lay-out. 

Over €300,000 has been invested in the 

course improvement programme in recent 

times. Golfing enthusiasts can enjoy the fruits 

of this commitment for just €15 per round 

(including weekends). It’s absolutely amazing 

value! 

Dave Walby, Alan Conway, 

Charlie O’Driscoll and 

Stephen Druhan 

The well protected 1st green 

IRISH GOLFERS...COME TO SESIMBRA 

Enjoy a delightful golfing break on Portugal’s Blue Coast 

Stay at the SANA Sesimbra Hotel 

B 

etween the blue of the sea and the lush green of the 

mountain, there is a dedicated team waiting to provide a 

warm welcome at our hotel which is a haven of relaxation. 

The hotel offers 97 rooms and 3 suites. From the sobriety 

and discreet elegance of the decoration to the design of the 

chosen pieces, everything has been done to create a 

comfortable and peaceful atmosphere. 

Close your eyes and dream you are amidst everything you 

wish for. Make your dream come true and organise your event 

or your leisure moments at SANA Sesimbra Hotel. 

www.sesimbra.sanahotels.com 

QUINTA DO PERU 

SANA SESIMBRA HOTEL 

Play golf at lovely Quinta do Peru... 

With the Arrabida Mountains as its 

backdrop, the course is perfect for the 

golfer on holiday. The new Clubhouse 

includes pro-shop, bar & restaurant. The 

off-course facilities includes a two way 

driving range, putting & chipping greens. The 

friendly family atmosphere makes this club one of the most 

highly regarded in Portuguese golf. A must see. 

www.golfquintadoperu.com 


Killarney Golf & Fishing Club is one of 

the most heavenly settings for golf 

imaginable. Indeed, it has been 

described as ‘Heaven’s Reflex’ and ‘The 

Nearest Golf Club to Heaven’. Bing Crosby 

was blown away by the beauty of the place and 

the late doyen of golf commentators Henry 

Longhurst once famously remarked on a visit 

to Killarney, “What a lovely place to die.” 

It is, truly, heaven on earth and visiting 

golfers are welcomed with open arms. 

It is a perfect destination for a golf and 

leisure break and what better time to gather the 

family or round-up a group and enjoy this 

magical experience than during the Autumn 

season after the club hosts the ‘3’ Irish Open, 

supported by Fáilte Ireland (Jul 29th-Aug 1st). 

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club offers a 

choice of three contrasting championship 

courses and excellent practice facilities. It is 

important to pre-book tee times. 

The Killeen course is the jewel in the crown. 

It meanders around the shores of Lough Leane 

against the magnificent backdrop of the 

Mountains of Killarney National Park. It 

previously hosted the 1991 and 1992 Irish 

Open Championship - which was won both 

times by Nick Faldo - and the 1996 Curtis Cup, 

when the home team triumphed. 

The Killeen course is ideally suited to long, 

straight hitters. It was re-opened in 2006 and 

features tight tree-lined fairways, slick 

undulating greens, water features on nearly 

every hole and spectacular lakeside scenery, 

Mahony's Point is the shortest of the three 

courses and considered to be the most suited to 

all skill levels and golf societies. Course 

characteristics include generous fairways, large 

flat greens, well placed bunkers and water 

hazards. This lakeside course offers spectacular 

views and the breathtaking lakeside par-3 18th 

inspired the legendary Gene Sarazen to describe 

it as “one of the most memorable holes in the 

world”. 

The newest of the three courses is 

Lackabane, which opened for play in 1999. 

This outstanding parkland creation rewards the 

long, accurate hitter with generous fairways 

and challenging undulating greens. It is ideally 

suited to mid to low handicap golfers. Lakes 

and streams feature throughout the course. 

For full details regarding facilities, golf rates 

and group outings at Killarney Golf & Fishing 

Club visit www.killarney-golf.com 

Where to stay in Killarney... 

Photograph courtesy of 

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club 

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club 

Killarney, Co. Kerry 

Telephone: 064 6631034 

Fax: 064 6633065 

There is an abundance of quality accommodation in Killarney. Here we point 

you in the direction of three hotels that are popular with golf groups. 

LAKE HOTEL - Nestling on the lakeshore of Loch Lein, Killarney’s lower lake, 

The Lake Hotel, Killarney, enjoys the most magnificent setting with the truly 

unique backdrop of the mountains, islands, woodlands and the 12th century 

McCarthy Mor castle ruins. The Lake Hotel is a four star, family run and owned 

hotel and has been welcoming guests since 1820, so a long tradition of warm 

hospitality awaits all visitors. Visit: www.lakehotel.com 

RANDLES HOTELS - The 4-star Randles Court Hotel was commended by the 

Irish Golf Tour Operators Association last year, along with its sister hotel next 

door - The Dromhall. They are owned and managed by the Randles family. The 

Randles Court Hotel offers excellent accommodation and facilities including 

private dining for groups, a choice of restaurants and bars, a leisure club, a Zen 

Day Spa, and a golf drying and storage room. Visit: www.randleshotels.com 

A perfect destination for Autumn golf & leisure breaks 


Beacon Shopping 

Centre 

OVER50 WINES 

ON PROMOTION EVERY MONTH 

Deluxe guest rooms 

Spa & Leisure Club 

Choice of Bars 

& Restaurants 

Both hotels are just a 

5-minute stroll from 

Killarney town centre 

and the INEC 

4* Randles Hotels, Killarney 

Winner of IGTOA’s 2009 Golf Hotel of the Year 

O’Briens, Beacon Shopping 

Centre, is Ireland’s largest 

drinks store. 

Choose from a range of over 1,000 wines, a varied 

range of spirits and chilled beers from around the 

world. 

With a team of knowledgeable staff to advise you 

and over 40 wines available to taste every day, you 

can even try before you buy. 

We carry a selection of hampers and gift sets to 

suit all events and budgets. 

Randles Court Hotel 

GREAT 

GOLFING 

BREAKS 

The Dromhall Hotel 

*3 nights B&B 

*3 Rounds of Golf 

(including Irish Open course) 

only €315.00 pps 

Other Packages Available * Special Society Rates 

Contact: susan@randleshotels.com 

Tel: 064.6639300 www.randleshotels.com 

Open: Mon-Sat: 10.30am-10pm Sun: 12.30pm-8pm 

3 hours FREE parking at the centre 

Call: 01 2931050 

BEACON S.C. 

Sandyford, 

Dublin 18 

(OPPOSITE DUNNES STORES) 


ALMERIA GOLF SPECIAL 

- VENUE: EL TOYO, ALMERIA, SOUTHEAST SPAIN 

- GOLF COURSE: ALBORAN GOLF (www.alborangolf.com) 

- HOTELS: 4 STARS HOTELS 

BOOK NOW 

WHAT’S INCLUDED 

OPTION A 4 NIGHTS + 3 ROUNDS 

OPTION B 7 NIGHTS + 4 ROUNDS 

OPTION C 7 NIGHTS + 3 ROUNDS 

185€ pps 

295€ pps 

320€ pps 

+ 2 ROUNDS EN LA ENVIA GOLF 

- BUFFET BREAKFAST DAILY AND EVENING DINNER 

-VATINCLUDED 

HOTEL: 

4 star Hotel Cabo Gata Plaza 

Suites, (www.suitesplaza.com) 

situated beside the beach and golf 

course, Hotel Garden Cabo de Gata 

(www.gardenhotels.com), Hotel 

Barceló Cabo de Gata 

(www.barcelo.com) and Hotel 

Alcazaba Mar (www.azhoteles.com) 

PLEASE QUOTE 

‘ALBORANGOLF DEAL, DEAL’. AS ASOON AS AS WE WE CONFIRM YOUR YOUR HOTEL HOTEL & GOLF ANDRESERVATION, GOLF RESERVATION YOU CAN YOU BOOK CANYOUR BOOKFLIGHT YOURTO FLIGHTS ALMERIA TOAIRPORT 

ALMERIA, 

JUST CHECK 10 MINS RYANAIR DRIVE (MONDAY, FROM YOUR THURSDAY HOTELS AND SATURDAY) GOLF COURSE OR OR EASYJET TO MURCIA (MONDAY, SAN JAVIER THURSDAY, AIRPORT FRIDAY 2 HOURS ANDDRIVE SUNDAY). TO ALBORÁN GOLF 

OFFER VALID 

FROM 15th 

SEPTEMBER 

2010 

TO 30th JUNE 

2011 

(Request prices for Summer months) 

TO BOOK THE HOTEL AND GOLF 

TEL/FAX +34 950 208583 

MAIL: JOSE R ESPINOSA 

joseespinosa@alborangolf.com 

PACO VENEGAS 

fvenegas@alborangolf.com 

DERMOT FAGAN 

fagangolf@yahoo.com 

LEOPARDSTOWN 

SPORTS TRAVEL 

is delighted to announce details 

of two special Autumn trips 

SIMPLY PAINTING and GOLF TRIP 

with the esteemed Frank Clarke 

When: 12th-19th September 2010 Where: Costa Brava, Spain 

Cost: €955.00 pp including tax. 

Package: Price includes flights, 4 star Silken Park Hotel, 

3 painting classes and 3 rounds of golf, plus a trip to 

Barcelona to visit the many wonderful works of Gaudi. 

SICILY GOLF WEEK 

We have found a real gem for discerning golfers 

at the foot of Mount Etna. 

When: 12th - 19th September 2010 Where: Sicily, Italy 

Cost: €1,195.00 pp plus tax. 

Package: Price includes flights with Aer Lingus, 

4 nights Palmerston Golf Resort and 3 nights in 

Gran Miramar Hotel, plus 3 rounds of golf. 

For more details / bookings contact 

Antoinette Young, Leopardstown Sports Travel 

Tel: 01 2686211 Email: ayoung@lst.ie 

Summer madness at the 

Green Fee Rates (18 holes) 

Adults (everyday from 12pm)....................€15 

Students and Seniors ..................................€12 

Juniors (Age 10-16 yrs) ...............................€10 

Twilight Rate (after 7pm) ...........................€10 

Driving Range 

Large Basket (8am-3pm Mon-Fri) ...............€6 

Loyalty Card (top-up as you wish).............€50 

All Weather Practice Area 

Tour-spec short game area 

€10 (per hour) 

Annual Membership 

Available €100 

Special rates in 

July & August 

To advertise in LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF NEWS contact 

The Golf Business, Tel: 00353-1-2827269. Email: golfbiz@eircom.net 


Anne Weir’s captain’s day on 

Sunday August 29th is the 

centrepiece of a busy 2010 

calendar for the 350 members of the 

thriving Leopardstown Ladies Golf 

Club. 

The club’s showpiece event will be 

sponsored once again by Algarve 

Tourism with the winner and runner-up 

qualifying for the Grand Final of the 

Algarve Trophy, which brings together 

golfers from the UK, Ireland, Germany 

and Sweden each year. 

Anne’s captain’s dinner and the 

presentation of competition prizes will 

take place in The Green Room 

Restaurant the following Friday, 

September 3rd. 

Last year Mary E. Roche, a member 

of the Saturday Signets society, was the 

toast of the celebrations as she posted a 

sizzling tally of 45pts off 18 handicap to 

outscore 147 other competitors and win 

Michelle Savage’s prize. 

Another huge turn-out is expected for 

Anne Weir’s big day at the end of August 

and scoring is likely to be red-hot once 

again. 

Anne, also a member of the Saturday 

Signets, suffered an injury to her 

kneecap earlier in the season, prior to 

her captain’s drive-in, but she is now 

back on the fairways and enjoying her 

captaincy. 

continued... 

Top: Cora Fallon, Annette McGlynn and Clare 

Kenny, all members of the Wednesday Hotshots 

society, enjoying a recent Sunday competition 

organised by the Leopardstown Ladies Golf Club 

Above: Mary E. Roche (right), winner of last 

year’s Captain’s (Michelle Savage) Prize, with 

Saturday Signets friends Dorothy Dowling (left) 

and Eleanor McCarthy. 

Right: Members of the Leopardstown Ladies Golf 

Club committee, from left, Tina Harrington 

(Competitions Secretary), Anne Weir (Captain), 

Stephanie Carney (Vice Captain) and Bernadine 

Shanahan (Honorary Treasurer) 

Photographs for the next issue 

should be emailed in highresolution 

jpeg format to the 

Editor at golfbiz@eircom.net 

before September 30th 


continued... 

The vibrant Leopardstown Ladies 

Golf Club was formed and affiliated to 

the Irish Ladies Golf Union just a few 

years ago and it has progressed in leaps 

and bounds. 

Aside from a busy programme of 

events the club organises golf outings 

occasionally. Earlier this season visits 

were arranged to Old Conna Golf Club 

and Castleknock Golf Club (competition 

results below), both of which attracted 

about forty participants, and there’s an 

outing planned for Woodbrook Golf 

Club on Thursday September 16th. 

The club’s annual charity outing will 

take place at the golf centre on Sunday 

October 10th. It will take the form of a 

12-hole competition followed by an 

evening buffet in The Green Room 

Restaurant and proceeds from the event 

will be donated to St. Vincent de Paul. 

Anne Weir wishes to acknowledge the 

participation of the club’s sponsors, the 

enthusiasm of the club’s members and the 

excellent organisational support provided 

by the club’s committee. 

Above: Evelyn Kenny (Wednesday Hotshots), Alice Nelson (Wednesday Wonders), Penny Noble 

(Wednesday Hotshots) and Colette Holmes (Monday Mags) get set to tee-off in a recent 

Leopardstown Ladies Club event at the golf centre. 

Below: Also taking part in a recent competition were Annette Kenny, Audrey Kenny and Susan 

Conway, all members of the Iron Ladies society 

Leopardstown Ladies Club 

2010 Committee 

OLD CONNA OUTING - May 

1st: Stephanie Carney (31) 34pts 

2nd: Doreen Purcell (27) 33pts 

3rd: Miriam Maye (23) 32pts 

1st 9: Lucy Bannon (34) 17pts 

2nd 9: Maria Madigan (26) 16pts 

Longest Drive: Pat Donovan 

Nearest The Pin: Breda Flynn 


CASTLEKNOCK OUTING - June 

1st: Marie Branigan (35) 38pts 

2nd: Rosemary Keogh (29) 31pts 

3rd: Tina Harrington (32) 29pts 

1st 9: Noirin Ni Laoi (31) 15pts 

2nd 9: Gemma Rowley (36) 19pts 

Longest Drive: Lucy Bannon 

Nearest The Pin: Ann Ryan 

Captain: Anne Weir 

Vice-Captain: Stephanie Carney 

Hon Sec: Pat Grogan 

Treasurer: Bernadine Shanahan 

Handicaps Sec: Grainne Gunning 

Competition Sec: Tina Harrington 

Ex-Officio: Michelle Savage 

Above: Woodbrook will host the Leopardstown 

Ladies Golf Club’s next outing on Thursday 

September 16th.

Resort Feature 

Photographs courtesy of 

Le Meridien Penina Golf & Resort 

Portugal’s glistening Algarve coastline is 

blessed with some of the finest golf 

courses and resorts in Continental 

Europe and one of the standard leaders 

for the region is Penina, the resort that first 

established the Algarve as a golfer’s paradise in 

the 1960’s. 

The centrepiece of this luxurious 5-star resort, 

which is situated midway between the fishing 

port of Portimao and the historic town of Lagos, 

is the famous 18-hole championship golf course 

designed by the late Sir Henry Cotton. 

The legendary three-time British Open 

champion regarded Penina as his finest course 

design, a true masterpiece. It has hosted the 

Portuguese Open on many occasions. 

Le Meridien Penina Golf Resort has been 

totally modernised since the mid-1990’s when 

the golf course was refurbished. All 188 rooms 

were totally renovated and upgraded during 

2008. Set in its own 360 acre estate, the resort 

has been transformed into a magnificent complex 

offering an abundance of guest facilities in the 

most delightful surroundings. 

The resort boasts three beautifully maintained 

golf courses, with a 9-hole resort lay-out and a 

9-hole academy course for beginners 

complementing the championship course. There 

are also excellent practice facilities. 

Check-out the resort’s Autumn and Winter 

golf programmes, incorporating professional golf 

clinics, on www.lemeridien.com/penina 

Other facilities for active visitors include a 

tennis academy with resident instructor available 

on request, 5 tennis courts (1 floodlit), an 

Olympic size swimming pool, FIFA size football 

pitch, a famous snooker table (which was 

donated by King Edward VII), state-of-the-art 

gymnasium and a 3km fitness trail with 12 

exercise stations. 

A range of watersports can be enjoyed 

closeby and the hotels operates a shuttle service 

to the beach during high season. 

The dedicated Penguin Village children’s 

club, complete with its own swimming pool, 

provided endless hours of supervised fun and 

activity for kids. 

The stylish and relaxing resort hotel offers 

excellent facilities and accommodation options 

ranging from attractive standard rooms with 

mountain or pool views to exquisite grand suites 

offering every luxury. 

Penina is a perfect retreat for golf groups and 

golfing families. The resort is 35-miles from Faro 

Airport and near several popular towns 

including Alvor, Portimao, Lagos and Silves. 

Useful information... 

Resort: Le Meridien Penina Golf & Resort 

Where: Western Algarve, midway between Portimao and Lagos 

Enquire about: Our Autumn, Winter & Spring Golf Schools with 

professional tuition. Very attractively priced packages 

Tel: 00.351.282.420210 

Email: reservations.penina@lemeridien.com 

Website: www.lemeridien.com/penina 

Savour the Algarve’s most famous resort 


On the following 

pages we focus 

the spotlight on 

County Wicklow’s 

wonderful golf 

product and 

present great 

ideas for your 

next outing or 

friendly fourball. 

Arklow 

Ballinastoe 

Baltinglass 

Blainroe 

Blessington Lakes 

Bray 

Charlesland 

Coollattin 

Delgany 

As recently as twenty years ago there 

were just eleven golf courses in County 

Wicklow, including the magnificent 

new links at The European Club in Brittas 

Bay and such treasures as Woodenbridge, 

Coollattin and, of course, Woodbrook, which 

gained an international reputation during the 

1960’s as host venue to high profile 

professional and celebrity events. 

Today the Garden of Ireland boasts 27 

courses, all of which are a pure pleasure to 

play. They combine to serve a huge local 

golfing population and attract a significant 

level of golf tourism and domestic business to 

the Wicklow region. 

The whole landscape in County Wicklow 

has been transformed in breathtaking fashion 

into a golfing wonderland. 

There is a great mix of courses in the 

Garden County and the sheer joy of playing 

golf in such beauty and splendour invests the 

region with a very special appeal. 

On these pages we present just a flavour of 

the menu on offer which provides a myriad of 

options whether you are planning a short 

break, a society or corporate event, a friendly 

fourball or participation in an Open Week or 

other open events in the region. 

County Wicklow’s delightful golfing menu 


Djouce 

Druids Glen 

Druids Heath 

The European Club 

Glen of the Downs 

Glenmalure 

Greystones 

Kilcoole 

Macreddin 

Directory of GUI affiliated golf clubs in Co. Wicklow 

POWERSCOURT 

There are locations for golf which are 

absolutely perfect in every sense and 

Powerscourt Golf Club is blessed 

with a truly inspirational setting. 

The views, ambience and landscaping are 

simply spectacular. Little wonder this 

famous 1,000 acre estate has been chosen as 

a location for so many Hollywood films. 

Powerscourt Estate serves as a dramatic 

backdrop and setting for one of Europe’s 

finest 36-hole golf resorts. 

The two immaculately presented courses, 

simply styled The East and West, blend 

beautifully into the spectacular surroundings 

and dedicated buggy paths transform a 

round into an exhilarating and leisurely 

experience. 

The two courses are complemented by a 

spacious and imposing state-of-the-art 

clubhouse which has become very popular 

as a venue for a variety of golfing, business 

and social events and occasions. 

The resort is superbly situated at the 

gateway to County Wicklow. The M50 

makes the resort very convenient from all 

points within the Metropolitan area and 

beyond. 

www.powerscourt.ie 

Old Conna 

Powerscourt (East) 

Powerscourt (West) 

Rathsallagh 

Roundwood 

Tulfarris 

Wicklow 

Woodbrook 

Woodenbridge

DRUIDS GLEN RESORT 

The exquisite Druids Glen Golf 

Resort, which is just 20-mins from 

the Leopardstown Golf Centre, 

enjoys a picture postcard setting in the 

Garden of Ireland with glorious natural 

surroundings creating a perfect backdrop 

for total relaxation and a memorable 

experience everytime. 

The style, imagery and atmosphere that 

one associates with top quality golf and 

leisure destinations is present in 

abundance at the 5-star Druids Glen Golf 

Resort which has received many accolades 

including 2005 European Golf Resort of 

the Year. 

Druids Glen staged the Irish Open 

between 1996 and 1999 and the 

prestigious Seve Trophy in 2002. 

The contrasting Druids Heath course 

has also gained many admirers. 

Two top class 18-hole championship 

golf courses, excellent clubhouse facilities, 

state-of-the-art teaching and practice 

facilities, the luxurious 5-star Druids Glen 

hotel and clusters of attractive properties 

are all part of a resort which echoes class. 

The resort is a joy to visit at any time 

with the facilities matched by a superior 

level of service which proves irresistible to 

visitors. 

www.druidsglen.ie 

Bookings now being taken 

for Autumn to Spring 

Society Special 

Groups of 16+ can enjoy a round 

of golf on Druids Glen followed 

by a Steak Meal for just €90pp 

Offer valid October to end April 2011. 

Subject to availability. 

DRUIDS GLEN 

GOLF RESORT 

COUNTY WICKLOW 

IRELAND 

Society rates and golf passes are 

available on both Druids Glen and 

Druids Heath throughout the year. 

For further details: 

please call reservations (01) 2873600 

or Email: info@druidsglen.ie 

www.druidsglen.ie 

“Where you have a choice of courses everyday” 

Early Bird Offer available 7 Days - 4 Ball €200 

Societies & Groups welcome daily 

2010/11 Societies - Book 2 outings with us, pay deposits on both now and 

receive a FREE 3rd outing for your Society (terms & conditions apply) 

(01) 204 6033 ● www.powerscourt.ie 


* Famous 18-hole championship course * Excellent dining and clubhouse facilities 

* Superb venue for golf and a variety of social occasions 

Now taking bookings for 2010/2011 society & corporate outings 

Old Dublin Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow. Tel: (01) 2824799. Fax: (01) 2821950 

www.woodbrook.ie 

WOODBROOK 

Woodbrook Golf Club, a drive 

and 5-iron from the popular 

seaside town of Bray and 

closer still to the M50, provides all the 

elements that create the perfect golf 

day...a highly rated championship course 

that is easy on the legs, outstanding and 

inviting clubhouse facilities, attractive 

green fee rates, a reputation for fine food 

and, above all, a tradition of offering 

visitors a really warm welcome. 

In recent years the club has invested 

heavily in a major course and clubhouse 

refurbishment programme and the 

transformation has earned Woodbrook 

glowing reviews and increased business 

from the lucrative corporate and society 

golf sectors. 

The refurbished clubhouse is an 

imposing building with comfortable, 

modern and spacious facilities for 

members and guests. Excellent catering 

services combine with Woodbrook's 

legendary hospitality to create a perfect 

venue for special golf events. 

Down the years Woodbrook has 

hosted many golfing legends including 

Open champions Max Faulkner, Peter 

Thomson, Kel Nagle, Bob Charles, Gary 

Player Tony Jacklin and Tom Watson. 

It’s fun following in their footsteps. 

www.woodbrook.ie 

GLEN OF THE DOWNS 

The legendary English amateur 

golfer Peter McEvoy thoroughly 

enjoyed the challenge when he 

was commissioned to design the lovely 

Glen of the Downs course and visiting 

golfers can share his joy as the course 

provides a very pleasurable experience in 

the most idyllic surroundings with the 

Wicklow mountains serving as a 

dramatic backdrop. 

McEvoy introduced many interesting 

characteristics to his design concept, 

whilst retaining the character of the 

setting, and one of the fascinating 

features is that the course plays similar to 

a links. 

Rolling fairways, natural slopes and 

valleys, bunkers galore and greens built 

to USGA specifications form an 

impressive golfing landscape. It’s a course 

that thrills golfers of all standards. 

The off-course facilities are equally 

impressive. The stylish and spacious 

clubhouse is a relaxing sanctuary for 

aprés golf socialising and dining, and it is 

geared to cater for a whole host of events 

from golf outings to product launches, 

private business functions, weddings and 

other family occasions. 

The setting at Glen of the Downs is 

matched by the hospitality. 

www.glenofthedowns.com 

 

 

€ 

 

 

 

€€ 

 

 

 

 


BRAY 

Bray Golf Club has a rich history 

dating back to its foundation in 

1897 and events in recent times 

have added an exciting new chapter to 

the club’s success story. 

For over one hundred years members 

and guests enjoyed the club’s facilities at 

Ravenswell Road in Bray, and the move 

to a stunning new home on the 

Kilruddery Estate in 2003 has proved to 

be an inspired decision. 

The course, designed by Des Smyth 

and Declan Brannigan, is a joy to play. A 

tiered effect for the fairways is a clever 

design feature as it largely negates the 

effect of the sloping site. Indeed, many 

holes are relatively flat and it’s fun 

negotiating the variety of doglegs, many 

bunkers and other striking course 

features. 

The course is set in nearly 200 acres 

between imposing Bray Head and the 

Sugar Loaf mountain with great views of 

Killiney Bay and the Wicklow 

Mountains. 

With an impressive 18-hole course in 

a beautiful setting and clubhouse facilities 

to match, the club has gone from strength 

to strength and it is now a very popular 

venue for society outings, business events 

and social occasions. 

www.braygolfclub.com 

SPECTACULAR IN EVERY ASPECT 

As General Manager of Bray Golf Club I look forward to having the opportunity to welcome readers 

of Leopardstown Golf News to our beautiful 18 hole parkland course. We aim to make your golfing 

experience as spectacular as the views which surround our magnificent course. In addition to the 

golf course we have wonderful practice facilities and a modern clubhouse with a relaxing ambiance. 

Our Team, including our PGA Professional, Ciaran Carroll, and our Caterers, Ian & Siobhan 

McEntaggart, are at your service and we believe that our experience will enhance your experience. 

I would encourage you to choose Bray Golf Club for your next golfing experience. Savour a golfing 

gem only minutes from the N11. 

Alan Threadgold 

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR READERS OF LEOPARDSTOWN GOLF NEWS! 

Weekday Rates – Golf Only 

9 Holes €15 – 18 Holes €25 

TRY OUR FRIENDLY FOURBALL 4 FOR 3 OFFER FOR 9 OR 18 HOLES 

EXTRA OFFER! 

ENHANCE YOUR EXPERIENCE FROM THE COMFORT OF A BUGGY. 

€5 extra per person. (*Max. 2 buggies per fourball). 

TELEPHONE (01) 2763200 

Web: www.braygolfclub.com Email: info@braygolfclub.com 

KILCOOLE 

Kilcoole Golf Club, established 

in 1992, is a charming and 

enjoyable 9-hole parkland course 

with very good drainage that allows year 

round golf. 

Set on mainly flat terrain there is a 

lovely mix of holes in a picturesque 

setting. It is a testing course without 

being too demanding, just ideal for a 

relaxing and leisurely round of golf with 

friends. 

Water comes into play on several 

holes and the signature hole is the 

short 3rd, measuring just 112 metres, 

which is played to an island green. It is a 

deceptive tee-shot as the green is larger 

than it appears from the tee. This 

presents plenty of fun and games with 

club selection! 

The club was purchased by the 

members in 1997 and a few years later 

€1.3m was invested in a new clubhouse 

which provides fine facilities in a pleasant 

and homely atmosphere. 

Kilcoole is a vibrant golf club, 

conveniently situated on the Newcastle 

Road. It serves over 500 members and 

welcomes a growing volume of visitors 

and societies. Keen green fee rates and the 

option of playing just 9-holes or a full 

round make it an appealing venue. 

www.kilcoolegolfclub.com 

Autumn / Winter Golf Special 

for Leopardstown Ladies Societies 

9 holes, soup & sandwich - €15 

18 holes, soup & sandwich - €20 

Available Monday to Friday 

from October 1st to March 31st 

* * * * * 

Special membership rates available 

Telephone: 01-2872066 

Email: info@kilcoolegolfclub.com 

Web: www.kilcoolegolfclub.com 

BALLINASTOE 

Ballinastoe Golf Club in Roundwood 

became affiliated to the Golfing 

Union of Ireland in 2007 and in 

the short space of time since then golf has 

flourished at this delightful club. 

The lovely 9-hole course enjoys a 

beautiful setting and it is playable year 

round in view of good drainage and sand 

based greens. 

The club is situated just 15-mins from 

Bray on the upper Enniskerry to 

Roundwood road. It is 3 miles from 

Roundwood village and just 10-mins 

from the N11 Kilmacanogue exit. 

www.ballinastoegolfclub.com 

BALLINASTOE GOLF CLUB 

Championship 9-hole golf course 

on the Roundwood / Enniskerry Road 

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES: 

Men €690 - Ladies €350 

18 hole Winter Green Fee Special €10 

(Monday to Friday) 

See: www.ballinastoegolfclub.com 

Contact: 086-8591545 


GREYSTONES 

Greystones is one of the longest 

established golf clubs in the 

country. It was founded in 1895 

and, whilst it retains the charm of a 

bygone era, the club has invested heavily 

in recent times in modernising its fine 

facilities. 

In 1998 the club embarked on a major 

course upgrading programme with the 

legendary Ron Kirby charged with the 

redesign brief. Over the years he has 

worked on course design projects with 

such luminaries as Jack Nicklaus, Robert 

Trent Jones and Gary Player. 

Kirby’s expertise produced an 

intriguing lay-out full of character which 

blends aspects of the club’s history with 

modern design features and USGA-spec 

greens and tees. 

The course was originally set around 

Jones’s Hill which still provides the 

feature hole - the 7th. It is set high above 

the seaside town with spectacular 

mountain and sea views. 

Golf can be enjoyed in a lovely 

atmosphere as the club is situated in the 

heart of the Garden County. The par-69 

18-hole course is surrounded by the 

Wicklow mountains with panoramic 

views of Dublin Bay. 

The club provides full catering 

facilities. 

www.greystonesgc.com 

BLAINROE 

Blainroe is a progressive golf club 

which has been completely 

transformed during the last 

decade following a significant 

investment in bringing the course to a 

new level. 

It was an inspired decision to engage 

the famous Hawtree company to carry 

out the redesign work on the 18-hole 

course. Their design philosophy is 

unashamedly rooted in the history and 

traditions of the game. 

Blainroe now boasts a Hawtree 

signature course with sea views from 

every hole that provides great 

enjoyment to a large membership and 

thriving visitor sector, and it recently 

hosted the Malaysia Tourism sponsored 

Irish Seniors Amateur Close Golf 

Championship. 

Blainroe prides itself on being a very 

friendly golf club with visitors welcome 

virtually every day of the week and teetimes 

are available most weekends. 

The modern and spacious clubhouse, 

overlooking a private beach, offers full 

bar and catering facilities. 

For golfers planning to play Blainroe 

as part of a short break, Wicklow town 

is an ideal base close by with plenty of 

dining and entertainment options. 

www.blainroe.com 

DJOUCE 

Djouce Golf Club in Roundwood 

was established in 1990 and in a 

relatively short space of time it 

has become a very popular and busy 

venue. 

The Club attracts golfers from a wide 

radius as it is situated just 40 minutes 

from Dublin, 25 minutes from the 

Leopardstown Golf Centre, 7 minutes 

from the N11 motorway, 10 minutes 

from Bray and 15 minutess from 

Wicklow Town. 

Here, golfers can enjoy a pleasant and 

affordable round of golf on a fine flat 

parkland course which is set in 

invigorating surroundings. The par 72 

course measures 6455 yards and presents 

a fair and interesting test. It is ideal for 

golf outings. 

Afterwards you can relax with your 

golfing companions in an imposing and 

comfortable clubhouse which is steeped 

in local history. It is a prominent 

landmark which served as a popular 

hotel throughout the latter half of the last 

century. 

The Sugar Mountain Cafe/Bistro is 

situated on the ground floor in the 

original clubhouse while the restaurant is 

situated on the bright and spacious first 

floor with delightful views of the 1st 

fairway. 

www.djoucegolfclub.com 

Discover a hidden gem on the 

cliffs overlooking Wicklow Bay 

* Quality golf course 

* Excellent facilities 

* Rates from €20 

* Group reductions 

PHONE: 

0404.67379 

Membership 

Enquire about Full, 

5-day and Social 

(Non-golfers) 

Book online at www.wicklowgolfclub.ie 

WICKLOW 

Every hole at Wicklow Golf Club is characterised by the 

contours and natural features of a dramatic clifftop 

setting. The course overlooks Wicklow Bay with the Irish 

Sea and Wicklow mountains serving as dramatic backdrops. 

It is a picturesque and challenging 18-hole parkland test 

featuring four superb par-3’s and a daunting 17th hole which is 

played over two lakes. 

As with all golf clubs in County Wicklow the warmth of the 

welcome adds a special dimension for visiting golfers. 

The club has an internet reservation system which allows 

visitors to pre-book tee-times and any other requirements, 

including hire of clubs / trolley and restaurant reservations. There 

is instant on-line and email confirmation of bookings. 

www.wicklowgolfclub.ie 


A warm welcome awaits visitors at 

OLD CONNA 

is a beautiful 18-hole 

parkland course 

situated on 

FERNDALE ROAD 

IN BRAY 

GOLF CLUB 

GREEN FEE RATES 

€25 - Early bird (to 11am) 

€18 - Twilight 9-holes 

And special group rates 

A limited number of full and 5 day 

memberships are presently available 

For bookings telephone 01.2826055 

Email: info@oldconna.com 

OLD CONNA 

Achallenging 18-hole parkland course in idyllic 

surroundings bearing the late Eddie Hackett’s distinctive 

design style, excellent hospitality and a keen pricing 

structure combine to make a visit to Old Conna Golf Club a 

most enjoyable experience. 

The Old Conna estate on the Ferndale Road in Bray provides 

magnificent panoramic views and the golf course has matured 

beautifully since it opened in 1987. It is defined by exceptional 

wooded terrain and a great variety of trees and shrubs imported 

from around the world by the original owners of the Old Conna 

estate. 

The bright and comfortable clubhouse is a relaxing 

environment for socialising after your round. 

www.oldconna.com

GREYSTONES GOLF CLUB 

Whitshed Road, Greystones, Co. Wicklow 

Golf has been played at Greystones since 1895, with every 

technological age of the game from hickory shafts and gutta percha 

balls to the most recent innovations being tested, and resisted, on the 

fairways. 

The course offers a splendid setting in the Garden of Ireland, with 

some magnificent sea views from Lambay Island to Wicklow Head and 

an inland backdrop of the Sugar Loaf and Wicklow mountains. 

Peter Alliss has referred to the course as a “little gem.” 

OPEN FOR MEMBERSHIP 

Contact Angus Murray on (01) 2874136 

LIKE TO JOIN A GOLF CLUB 

30-MINUTES FROM FOXROCK? 

With sea views from all 18 holes, this enjoyable and 

challenging parkland course carries the prestigious 

championship Hawtree & Son design signature. The 

6175 metres par-72 course is always well maintained 

and offers an interesting variety of holes with the 

14th played over the sea from a cliff promontory, 

probably being the feature hole. 

We now have spaces for new members and would 

like to hear from you if you have aspirations of 

joining a golf club this year at very attractive rates. 

Green Fees Welcome 

Limited number of tee times 

available for golf groups 

and society outings 

Special Green Fee Rates 

on Mondays & Fridays 

€30 pp (F/ball €90) 

Early Bird €25 (F/ball €75) 

Telephone: 01. 2874136 Fax: 01.2873749 

Email: secretary@greystonesgc.com www.greystonesgc.com 

Roundwood, Co. Wicklow 

20 mins from Cabinteely 

9 hole parkland course - 6455 yds - Par 72 - SSS 70 

The club is GUI & ILGU affiliated 

Enjoy our comfortable clubhouse facilities, 

including the Sugar Mountain Bistro 

MEMBERSHIP FEES 

7-day: €700 (incl VAT) 

5-day: €500 (incl VAT) 

GREEN FEES 

9 holes: €15 

18 holes: €20 

Phone Catherine or Donal on 01.2818585 

Email: djoucegolfclub@gmail.com 

www.djoucegolfclub.com 

Ordinary Membership 

First year’s subscription, 

Bar Levy, GUI/ILGU Levy 

& Insurance 

€6,000 

Family Connection 




& Insurance 

€4,500 

Over 65 


No Entrance Fee 

Subscription includes Bar Levy, 

GUI/ILGU Levy & Insurance 

€1,279 

5 Day Membership 



& Insurance 

€5,000 

Family Connection 




& Insurance 

€3,500 

Over 65 


No Entrance Fee 

Subscription includes Bar Levy, 

GUI/ILGU Levy & Insurance 

€966 

For details please contact 

Patrick Bradshaw at 

0404-68168 

BLAINROE GOLF CLUB 

BLAINROE, CO. WICKLOW. 

www.blainroe.com 


RESORT 

FEATURE 

Since its inauguration in 1972, La Manga 

Club has become firmly established as a 

top class resort. There is something for 

everyone in this 1400-acre sporting and 

leisure oasis ranging from championship golf 

and tennis to a superb spa, a junior club for the 

youngsters and a wide range of other activities. 

The resort is situated in south-east Spain, 

just 20-mins from Murcia-San Javier Airport 

and within one hour of Alicante Airport. La 

Manga Club is set amid rolling hills and 

bordered by an unspoilt Natural Park. The 

crystalline Mediterranean fringes the resort to 

the south whilst the warm shallow waters of 

the Mar Menor (Europe’s largest saltwater 

lagoon) are just a few minutes drive away. 

La Manga Club is home to three beautiful 

golf courses. It has hosted the Spanish Open 

five times along with many other high profile 

amateur, corporate and charity events. 

The resort also boasts a luxury spa with a 

25-metre indoor pool, fitness centre and 13 

deluxe treatment rooms, more than 20 

restaurants and bars offering a tantalising 

choice of global cuisine, as well as a 28-court 

Tennis Centre, paddle tennis, squash, a 

professional Football Centre, swimming pools, 

a Mediterranean beach cove, miles of stunning 

trails to walk or ride and a host of other sports 

in a year-round Mediterranean climate. 

Guests have the option of luxurious hotel 

and self-catering accommodation. 

Located adjacent to two of the three 

championship golf courses, the 5* Hotel La 

Manga Club Príncipe Felipe offers 192 

beautifully designed guestrooms, Royal Club 

rooms and suites with wonderful golf or pool 

views. In 2007, the hotel unveiled a stunning 

new concept, the work of interior designer, 

Jaime Beriestain. 

Set in a privileged hillside location adjacent 

La Manga Club - Awards & Accolades 

● Europe’s Leading Golf & Leisure Resort 2010 

● Finalist: World Luxury Hotel Awards 2009 

● Nominee: World’s Leading Sports Resort 2007 & 2008 

● Q Plus certification for golf course excellence 2007 

● Spain's Leading Golf Resort 2006 

● Europe's Leading Golf Resort 2001, 2003, 2005, 2010 

● Europe's Leading Conference Hotel 2003 


to the spa, Las Lomas Village offers a choice 

of stylish, fully equipped apartments or 

serviced guest rooms, ideal for family holidays 

or a sporting get-away with friends. 

Children are also well catered for with a 

superbly equipped Junior Club (open yearround), 

professionally coached holiday sports 

academies (golf, tennis, dance, cricket and 

football), indoor and outdoor pools and a host 

of fun activities for all ages. 

La Manga Club is the perfect destination at 

any time of the year for a golf holiday or 

sporting break with friends, a fun-packed 

holiday for the family, a romantic getaway or 

a business conference or an incentive trip. 

The resort prides itself on providing high 

levels of service and sophistication. 

Photograph courtesy of 

La Manga Club 

La Manga Club 

30389 Cartagena, 

Murcia, Spain. 

Tel: 0034.968.33 1234 

Fax: 0034.968.33 1235 

info@lamangaclub.com 

www.lamangaclub.com 

Details also available from 

Leopardstown Sports Travel

Email your news items and hi-resolution 

jpeg photos to golfbiz@eircom.net 

Stage 

Great stay & play option 

in beautiful Costa Azul 

The Costa Azul, Portugal’s Blue Coast, 

has become a popular destination 

with Irish golfers and little wonder as it 

offers a great mix of courses, top class 

accommodation and a lovely relaxing way 

of life whilst also being close to the vibrant 

capital city of Lisbon. 

The magnificent Quinta do Peru club 

has teamed-up with the luxurious 4-star 

SANA Sesimbra Hotel to create very 

tempting stay and play options. See their 

advert on Page 9 for contact details. 

Quinta do Peru, Costa Azul 

SANA Sesimbra Hotel 

Congratulations to the 

legendary John Jacobs 

Congratulations and best wishes to the 

legendary John Jacobs, founder of the 

Golf Centre in the mid-1960’s, who 

celebrated his 85th birthday recently. 

David Kearney is an inspired appointment as the 

new PGA club professional at Grange Golf Club 

David Kearney, one of the most 

dynamic and respected figures in the 

Irish PGA and a key member of the Pure 

Golf Leopardstown team for the last year, 

has been appointed club professional at the 

Grange Golf Club in Rathfarnham. 

The 38-year-old Mayo native has 

become established as an outstanding 

instructor and motivator and has been a 

strong influence in Danielle McVeigh’s rise 

to Curtis Cup selection this year. 

David served as National Coach to the 

ILGU between 2001 and 2008. In 2003 he 

was appointed as a PGA tutor at The 

Belfry, and he has also served as National 

Coach to the Turkish Golf Federation. 

He brings a wealth of experience to his 

new role at Grange Golf Club. 

The Leopardstown Golf Centre wishes 

David every success going forward. 

David Kearney 

To discover everything there is to know 

about the services provided 

by the Leopardstown Golf Centre’s 

team of PGA professionals 

visit their website... 

www.puregolfireland.com 


Stage 

Pictured right is Pure Golf Leopardstown 

PGA professional Maura Morrin who is 

heavily involved in coaching ladies and coordinating 

junior programmes at the centre. 

MARTINA NOONAN WINS 

NEW PING & CHERVO EVENT 

Martina Noonan, a member of the 

Wednesday Hotshots society, produced 

an excellent tally of 20 pts to win the 9-hole 

grand final of a new competition sponsored by 

leading brands PING and Chervo. 

Each society held a qualifying competition 

and the 25 winners took part in the final. 

There was an excellent range of PING and 

Chervo prizes on offer and each finalist 

received a PING putter. 

A novel feature of the event was that all 

finalists were provided with the opportunity to 

sample PING demo equipment and familiarise 

themselves with the PING custom-fitting 

service available at the centre. 

Chervo also displayed their latest fashion 

ranges and accessories. 

The prizewinners in the final were... 

1st - Martina Noonan (20, Wednesday 

Hotshots), 20pts; 2nd - Ann Quinlan (14, 

Tuesday Swingers) 18pts; 3rd - Claire 

O’Dwyer (28, Friday Fillies) 17pts; 4th - 

Angela Maloney (29, Tuesday Eagles) 

16pts. 

Happy days for the Falcons 

Photograph on right shows a happy group 

of members from the Friday Falcons society 

on a recent visit to Rathfarnham Golf Club. 

Friday Falcons 

Paul 

McGinley 

WWW.CLUBSTOHIRE.COM 

IS A WINNING CONCEPT 

Algarve bound golfers tired of having 

to pay exorbitant airline charges for 

carriage of their clubs now have the option 

of hiring a top-of-the-range set of clubs 

from an innovative new business launched 

recently at Faro Airport. 

This welcome new service, styled 

www.clubstohire.com and set to expand to 

other airports, operates on the same lines 

as car hire and the charge is €35 per week 

for a set of clubs. 

CEO Tony Judge is the driving force 

behind the venture. Ryder Cup star Paul 

McGinley is a partner in the business. 

General Manager 

Joe O’Connor 

Assistant Manager 

Dermot McCarthy 

Reception 

Anne Gibney 

Patricia McNamee 

Robert Cathcart 

Restaurant Manager 

Mary Curran 

Foxrock, Dublin 18. 

Tel: 289 5341 Pro Shop: 289 7452 

Fax: 207 0630 

Email: 

info@leopardstowngolfcentre.com 

Website: 

www.leopardstowngolfcentre.com 

Pure Golf 

PGA Professionals 

Michael Allan 

Michael Kavanagh 

John Langan 

Maura Morrin 

Michael McDermott 

Golf Course 

Superintendent 

Dave Walby 


Hundreds of miles of beautiful beaches, fantastic 

sightseeing and shopping in the shadow of the 

legendary Petronas Towers. Marvel at the Orang 

Utan, the ‘man of the forest’, the most gentle of 

creatures. A golfer will never be far from a green. 

Tee-off from the cool of the hills, from the sea 

shore or even from the edge of the jungle. 

The time is now. The place is Malaysia 

For more information please visit: 

www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my 

Tourism Malaysia Dublin 

Level 3A Shelbourne House 

Shelbourne Road 

Dublin 4 

Tel: + 353 1 237 62 43 

email: info@tourism-malaysiadublin.com

A Great Place To Play, A Great Place - Backspin Golf Magazine

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?