Security tightens at Doonbeg as Lowry leads Irish Open charge

A Garda officer on the beach on day two of the Amgen Irish Open at Trump International Golf Links Ireland in Doonbeg, ahead of US President Donald Trump's expected arrival. Pic: Damien Eagers/PA Wire

As Shane Lowry recovered from his only wobble of a superb second day, the beach behind him was being combed by a slow-moving line of security personnel conducting a thorough search operation.

Lowry stood on the 14th green having bogeyed the previous hole. It is a stunning par-3, playing downhill back towards the clubhouse with a sweeping view of the Atlantic all along the right.

The unusual backdrop to the Doonbeg venue this week is the constant reminder of the enormous security operation required for US President Donald Trump’s visit. 

Only those who are working at or attending the Amgen Irish Open will be allowed access to the Trump International Golf Links and Hotel. 

There is no pedestrian access, with various shuttle buses in operation for those attending.

On Friday, An Garda Síochána issued a statement outlining the significant policing and security operation.

“For safety and security reasons enhanced person and bag searches will be in operation on entry. This will be airport-style security searches and scanning. Small bags and small backpacks/ rucksacks, or similar, will be allowed onsite. For guidance this is similar to airline carry-on size bag that fits under a seat.” 

Various military vehicles snaked around the property on Friday ahead of Marine One’s arrival. Players are conscious that play may have to be temporarily halted for the helicopter’s arrival.

Trump bought the property in 2014. Doonbeg was in receivership and had just endured significant storm damage. It was put up for sale for just under €15 million.

“Doonbeg is an already terrific property that we will make even better – it will soon be an unparalleled resort destination with the highest standards of luxury,” he said at the time.

As for the course, the pace-of-play issues that saw groups crawl around Doonbeg on Thursday had eased by Friday. Denmark’s Jacob Skov Olesen headed into the weekend in the chasing pack, just three shots behind Lowry. 

The challenge on Friday was significantly different from the one he faced the previous day.

“Night and day,” he said with a laugh.

“Yeah, it was very different. Now it is blowing to where you feel like you can control almost all of your shots. Whereas yesterday it was actually blowing so hard that sometimes you could actually hit a good shot and the wind was just so strong you can't really control it. So you could get a bit more aggressive today. Still, obviously, have to play smart because I think the course will bite you if you don't.”