Lahinch Golf Club hits strong 19% increase in profit

Profits at Lahinch Golf Club, last year jumped 19% to €491,937.

The Clare links club counts retired Irish rugby player Paul O’Connell and multi-major winner Phil Mickelson as members, while two of its honorary life members, Terry Wogan and Christy O’Connor Jnr, passed away in recent months.

The 2015 accounts show the 124-year-old club’s green fee income climbed 13% to €1.6m and its surplus grew to €491,937 from €412,511 in 2014. In a report presented to members yesterday, chairperson Eamon Foley said its finances were “in good health”.

The increased green fee income was due principally from a 11% rise in average green fees. Lahinch may not be facing the same threat as Donald Trump’s Doonbeg golf resort from the threat of coastal erosion 32km down the Clare coast, but Mr Foley confirmed significant capital may be required to protect its main course.

“We have already started the consultation process with the relevant authorities on how best to achieve this in a way that satisfies all concerned.

“It will be prudent to provide for the cost of these works, if and when approved, to ensure the club is in a position to complete them in a cost effective and timely manner,” he said. The club aims for a profit of €298,206.