GolfPlus Sept 18 Digital Edition (Sept 2018) | Page 55

7UDYHO
indicates that they expect you to walk the
course, as in days gone by. Ronan Rafferty
called it „One of the best kept secrets of
Irish Golf.‰ I guess I am a purist, because I
just loved this course.
If you would rather play a Parkland
course, play the scenic lakeside Killeen
course at Killarney GC. Founded in 1893, and
relocated in 1937. Where a second course,
MahoneyÊs Point, and a third, Lackabane, are
also to be found. The first impression of the
club is amazing: Lush green grounds with
a grand lake and mountains as a backdrop.
Killeen has several dogsleg holes. And one
par 3 with an island green. Buggies can
be used when it is not too wet. After your
round you can sip your beer at a very nice
bar in the well-appointed clubhouse. Faldo
won the Irish Open there in 1991, calling it
a „tough, demanding course that is long,
narrow and breezy.‰
There are numerous other courses in
Kerry that make for memorable Links golf :
Newly-built Hogshead GC is a must-play;
challenging and with spectacular birds-eye
1st Killeen Course
ocean views. But, unlike the other courses in
Kerry, this one is frightfully expensive!
Tralee GC is simply legend. One of the
best in all of Ireland.
Ceann Sibeal GC near the colourful
town of Dingle up north is quite fabulous.
Ballybunion GC further north is probably
the most widely respected of all, mainly for
its history, challenge and natural beauty.
And Old Head GC far south near Cork
is by far the most picturesquely located, as
the whole course sits on what is technically
an abutment, but for all practical purposes,
an island.
Yes, I am missing loads of other courses
in County Kerry, but I think you have the
picture!
My good friend Peter Kerkar, head of