Instant Golf Tips

It’s no secret that Ireland is a top destination in the world for golf. Having experienced a playing holiday of the Emerald Isle, I thought I would put together some information on what courses you could incorporate into your dream Ireland golf trip.

But first let me reminisce for a moment.

It’s been almost a year since the Europeans took it to the Americans over at the K Club in County Kildare, Ireland. As is the pace of events worldwide these days, we have already completed another 4 majors. Padraig Harrington won his first major at the British Open and Tiger notched his 13th at the PGA.

But the memories from the K Club are still fresh in my mind.

Now I am an American, so make no mistake that I was pulling for the US. But I am also an Irish American (I have relatives in Mayo, as well as all over Europe), so also make no mistake that the gravity of that scene on that magical Sunday afternoon will never be forgotten.

What Darren Clarke did only 6 weeks this side of his personal family tragedy was special to say the least. And the rest of the European team rallied around him to make that weekend Ireland’s greatest sporting spectacle, by most accounts.

I’ll be spending some more time in future reports examining the power of momentum, or the elusive “zone” in sports. It’s amazing how pressure and the will to win, can both propel the athlete to victory, or serve as an obstacle to the very same goal. I have some unique ideas on that subject and as soon as they are down on paper, I’ll share them with my Instant Golf Tips subscribers (you can subscribe at the top right of this page). There is no doubt that the subject of performance under pressure is no more prevalent in any other sport as in golf.

Now back to the subject of Irish golf vacations.  I have been lucky enough to enjoy an Ireland golf tour that incorporated several destinations, including the breathtaking Mahony’s Point at the famous Killarney’s Golf and Fishing Club. Unfortunately, torrid weather (even by local standers) prevented us from playing Lahinch on the west coast. Hey, I was ready to play, but my golf partners weren’t! Another Fall 2007 trip is in the planning stages. 

We also played a number of lesser known golf courses throughout the country.  Ireland has over 300 courses to choose from (no wonder it’s so green), so you don’t need to stay at a golf resort or famous hotel venue to experience great golf.

Indeed the Ryder Cup and great memories prompted me to pull my pictures from Killarney’s. I believe this is the 16th. It’s even greener in person..

The Author prepares to launch one using “The Key”.

Now here is where I could use your help. Given that I have The Key To A Repeating Golf Swing customers in 58 countries around the world (you may be one of them), I would like to ask you a question:

Have you played in Ireland, and what was your favorite course?

With a sampling of 1000’s of golfers around the world, I will generate some extremely telling data for everyone who has played in Ireland, has thought about going, or was inspired by the Ryder Cup scene.

I will compile some pie charts (like above) for a report in the near future and we will get to the bottom of this question. I personally will be excited to see what comes out on top.

Even if you have never been to Ireland, but are curious about a specific course(s), indicate which one as I will work that into the poll results.

You can reply in the comments section below or email your choices to me at: ireland@instantgolftips.com. Note: All results will be anonymous.

I look forward to your input. - RC

What a year for Irish Golfers.  Last September, the Europeans took it to the Americans over at the K Club in Ireland highlighted by Darren Clarke’s emotional week and inspiring play.

Last weekend, Padraig Harrington chased down Sergio Garcia in the final round at the Open in Carnoustie, survived a double bogey on 18, and took him out in the playoff.

Not forgotten in the mix was the low amateur, Ireland’s Rory MclLroy, the only amateur to survive the 36 hole cut.  Well done.

It’s Wednesday and I am still thinking about Padraig’s resolve.   This guy has his head on right.  With the trophy at arms reach, he hits two balls in the water at the famous (cursed) #18, and takes six.

Moments later he was flipping his son around in his arms like it was any Sunday afternoon in the park.  By this point he wasn’t even in a playoff yet.

But then you remember that this is the guy who has beaten Tiger Woods head to head, not once but twice.  He’s a tough customer and is in control of his game and emotions.

Harrington is now Europe’s best golfer and #6 in the world.  At 35, he’s got at least a decade of top level golf ahead of him. Can he win more?  Of course.  You may have heard him say he was motivated by Mickelson’s comments a few years back regarding his own goals to win Majors, not just a Major.

So here’s the golf lesson from last weekend:

Trying to break 100? Why not set that goal at 98 or 95?

If you are in a match and take a triple on the 3rd hole, you are not out of it. Stay focused. Carnoustie should remind every golfer that there are ebs and flows in this game, like the tide rising and lowering against the rocks.

Was Padraig’s double bogey putt on 18 a low or high?  I bet in his mind the worst was over.  He had still beaten the field. The romp with his son grounded him. He was still in the game and ready to play some more.

Then his tide rose again in the playoff and he closed the deal.  His name will be on the Claret Jug forever.

Nice going Paddy.  Enjoy it Ireland!