The last half-century has seen a series of positive changes made at Bandon Golf Club – and the philosophy of continuous improvement is one that will be maintained into the future.
Founded in 1909 and based on the lands of the then-Fourth Earl of Bandon, the club was a nine-hole course for much of its life, with a ‘new’ nine added in 1974 as part of an ambitious overhaul which had seen a new clubhouse constructed.
Indicative of the way the club is still run to this day, those changes were part of a journey rather than being the destinations – the clubhouse has twice been renovated and extended since then, while the course itself underwent a huge redesign beginning in 2001, laid out by course architect Jack Kenneally.
The addition of the three ‘castle’ holes, standing beneath the ruin of Castle Bernard, was the centre-piece of this overhaul, while the routing of the course was also changed. Previous, ‘tighter’, holes were removed or amended to allow for the inclusion of the new three, culminating in a much-improved golfing experience.
In recent years, ongoing tweaks have ensured that the course remains one of the best in all of Cork, including works to revamp the bunkering at Bandon as well as a programme of tee-box renewal.
Bandon GC’s seveth green with Castle Bernard in the background. Picture: Niall O’Shea
Traffic on the course underlines just how popular a spot Bandon is and there is unanimous approval among visitors for the condition in which it is kept, with course superintendent James Burns overseeing excellent work by his team.
Off the course, it has also been a case of evolution. Billy O’Boyle is approaching his second anniversary as club professional – having succeeded his father Paddy, who gave four decades of service – while March of this year saw You Dream Catering begin operations at the club, under the name Bandon Grill, led by head chef Surejh Punchihewa.
Naturally, all at Bandon are keen to maintain the upward trajectory, with clubhouse upgrades planned in the near future. To that end, the club is hosting a fundraising classic on Friday, August 15.
The event, kindly sponsored by Finbarr Galvin Ltd, will be a three-person team format – an official Golf Ireland Handicap is not necessary to take part.
There are fantastic prizes on offer and the team entry cost of €180 includes meals and refreshments while tee-box sponsorship is available for €50.
For timesheet enquiries, please contact Mike Barry on 086-8093914 or Carmel O’Donovan on 087-9485750.
Incidentally, the coming weekend is a busy one in Bandon, with President Mr Jim Brennan’s Prize taking place on Friday and Saturday. The course will be showcased at its best Saturday night’s prize-giving is sure to be a great occasion.
For more information on joining Bandon Golf Club, see https://www.bandongolfclub.com/membership/
