We are very lucky to have been introduced to Jerry by MC on a previous trip to the Emerald Isle, and happy we were able to schedule a game with him at his home course, The Island. Consistently ranked in the top ten in Ireland……..usually #5 – 7 depending on who is doing the list…….The Island is often called the best course you have never heard of. It has a lower profile than the big name courses you have heard of, but measures up to all of them in a big way when it comes to the quality of golf it offers. A wonderful design which it seems is constantly being updated and improved, with Jerry giving us details hole by hole as we make our way around. Even though it is relatively early season, the course is in fine condition, and we are actually thankful that the hairy grasses on the dunes are not fully grown in yet, giving us a chance to find our balls from wayward shots more often than not. The course is visible across the estuary from Malahide and Portmarnock, and was actually on an island at one time……..hence the name…….with the only way to reach it being by boat, before a land crossing was established. There are many stories about boatloads of golfers making their way across the channel………usually about the return trip after a round of golf and a few rounds of refreshments. What a fantastic course, and a wonderful round of golf with Jerry. I must have had at least a dozen conversations with members during our time at the club………so friendly, and all interested in where I was from, and how I liked the course………extremely welcoming and a great atmosphere.
It was yet another perfect day for golf weather wise, and following a quick beer with Jerry, we were off to explore a neighbouring course for a round tomorrow before we leave for Rosapenna. Corballis……….a little 18 hole gem on the coast just north of The Island………only 4,624 yards, par 66, with 7 par 3’s, 1 par 5, and 10 par 4’s. The goats are interested in putting some polish on their par 3 play, so this would be a good opportunity. We stop by and make a tee time for the following morning, and look forward to giving it a try. It is right on the shore so we should have some great views.
Dinner tonight is at an “Old” favourite………Old Street restaurant has been on our list since coming to Malahide for the first time, and we know there is always something great being cooked up in their kitchen, good wine, and great service. Our waitress is Niamh…………..a traditional Irish name, pronounced “Neev”…………and she is a local, born and raised right here, and her whole family are golfers, with her Mum being the Ladies Captain at the Malahide Golf Club. A fantastic meal once again……..I am officially as big as a house!
HUGEBLOGSITE 
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