Castlegregory gearing up for a Classic weekend

In a county with more than its share of Broadway golf, two courses have often been compartmentalised under the “hidden gem” tag in the Kingdom.

Though the 18-hole Dooks links near Glenbeigh gets its share of global acclaim, Castlegregory tends to slip under the radar. And yet, among its nine-hole Arthur Spring layout, there are holes that would not be out of place on the finest links layouts on this island.

For many, this writer included, the absence of a proper clubhouse structure added to the allure — á la The European Club — but it was nonetheless a disincentive for some potential visitors.

That will now be corrected. The club is organising a major fundraising Classic to help with the development of their much-awaited, Warren Reidy-designed, clubhouse.

The classic will take place this week, from Thursday through to Sunday (Aug 22-25). More than 90 teams have subscribed already, a feather in the cap of not only club chairman Noel Earlie and captains Seamus Cronin and Isabel Mancera, but also organisers George Nash, Tina Moriarty and many more.

The classic is a four-person team, two to score, with prizes awarded for the first five teams home, front and back nine, with nearest the pin/longest drive prizes available on each day. Team entry stands at €120 per team.

Anyone wishing to join in the festivities on August 22-25, please phone Joan or Patricia at [phone].