email: [email protected] MAY 2021 PGA head pro Conor is TaylorMade for the role

With the opening of his trading under the CMK banner on Friday 30th April, our Head PGA Professional Conor McKenna felt he was finally underway in his new role. Although he officially started on 1st April, he wasn’t fooled into thinking it would be all plain sailing to transition effortlessly to a new business venture during the Covid curbs. • CONTINUED ON PAGES 2/3

MEN’S CAPTAIN: PETER HILLEN LADY CAPTAIN: KATHLEEN SMYTH PRESIDENT: HARRY CARSON

For everything that is good in Golf... exclusive at CMK Golf MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

• continued from page 1

Whilst he was able to meet and greet members from the foyer, and familiarise himself with club systems, the big challenge was winding down his shop at Concra in tandem with revamping the retail outlet at Banbridge. After weeks of hard labour by Conor and club volunteers, the pro shop has now been remodelled to enhance atmosphere and services, as well as create a swing room for a club repair service, custom fitting and indoor coaching. Some finishing touches remain, such as installation of an enlarged window, but as it stands, the refurbishment is impressive – smelling of newness and sporting a retail area stocked with apparel, bags, shoes, clubs, and accessories, along with a confectionery stand, and soft drinks and coffee vending machines. And despite supply chain disruption, stock is still coming in. Club captains Peter Hillen and Kathleen Smyth welcome our new head pro. Already, he’s been assigned an ambassador role with TaylorMade, to include demonstration days such as 4th May. Supporting him in his overall role is Josh Black, Road. His dad, Michael, was a member for 54 years and recently appointed by Conor as Assistant Pro. Josh, a well-known figure in Armagh, with his confectionery/ aged 19 and from Templepatrick, is a former Irish tobacconist business. Conor began his working life as a international and plans a career in golf through the merchandiser with a bread company before gravitating PGA trainee route. towards a career in golf. CMK Golf is part of the package that Conor brought Although a late starter to the game, having played to Banbridge upon his appointment to the position all kinds of sport up to then including football and of Head Professional, replacing Jason Greenaway who basketball, Conor took to golf quickly and saw his stepped back from golf in 2020 to take up a role in reduce from 19 to 9, then 9 to 5 (and now a the family timber business. He also brings a wealth scratch golfer). “I enjoyed seven years competing in local of experience, having completed 11 years as Head and provincial tournaments and I represented the club Pro at Concra Wood in Co Monaghan and, at many levels.” At the age of 22, he took on the job as previously, Co Armagh Golf Club. Assistant Professional at Armagh GC under Alan Rankin. “It was an opportunity to make a living out of something He’s excited at the prospect of a new start, a new club, I enjoyed,” he says. The following year, in July 1997, he and the opportunity to see what he can bring to BGC – turned professional. a more member-oriented club than the resort-type club he’s just left. And while the Covid pandemic was an Conor spent 14 happy years at Armagh GC, working hard additional challenge to getting the show on the road, he to develop a reputation as a coach and player, including was more energised than intimidated by the task that competing on the Irish region. His track record as an lay ahead. Assistant Pro speaks for itself: as well as coaching at a number of clubs and schools, including Silverwood, The stars aligned for both club and professional Lurgan, Loughgall, Benburb and Castleblaney, he helped late last year - with BGC’s job opening coming at a to develop a competitive junior section for both boys and time when Conor was seeking a change, and the job girls at Armagh (nine underage girls played for , spec meeting his expectations for coaching, retail, and two went on to represent ), he was also the membership recruitment and retention. His vision Junior Golf Ireland coach for the county of Armagh, reflects that of the club: To enhance the golfer’s a coach for the Schools League, and a experience from the time they enter to the time they Development Coach with the ILGU. He prides himself on leave. He says: “I want to offer the services that I would being a coach to a winning Ronan Rafferty team, as he’d want if I was a member: a well stocked golf shop, repair won the Ronan Rafferty as a junior member at Armagh facility, custom fitting, and coaching to all categories of GC in 1992. members. I want to bring a fun, family oriented feeling to the membership and, as you say, a club for all.” His goal was always to become a Head Professional at a golf club and after eight years PGA qualified, he achieved Conor began to play golf in 1990 at the age of 16 at his aim in 2010 when a job opening arose at a premier Armagh GC, close to his home on the city’s Newry , Concra Wood, to become its first Head Pro.

02 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

• continued from page 2

He also had a vested interest in concluded that the job of a head relocating across the border as, professional was impossible without two years previously, he helped to a retainer. For the sake of himself secure the club’s future (formerly and his family - wife Maura and sons Castleblaney GC) through the sale of £185,000 of shares. Concra went on to Jamie (20) and Mark (16) - he decided be redeveloped on woodland beside to move on. Lough Muckno by Christy O’Connor Jr in collaboration with his uncle The opening at Banbridge gave him Christy Sr into a stunning scenic the opportunity to get back to a club parkland course. with a more secure financial future, and a chance to stamp his mark in “Concra Wood was my dream job and I believe I delivered all I promised its ambitious five-year development them in my time at the club,” reflects plan. Moreover, it’s close to his Conor. He felt privileged to be part home in Armagh, and allows him of the Concra team: “I worked to reconnect with players such as hard to grow the reputation and Rory Leonard, Richard Kilpatrick and course ranking, and it was a great Connor Doran. “The club has always experience. I’m very proud of what we achieved at the club in such a been renowned for producing great short time – from hosting three PGA players. I’d like to help regain that Europro Tour events 2012-2014, then reputation.” Another draw was the hosting a Event in work he had seen accomplished by 2018.” He managed to raise £240,000 Head Greenkeeper Chris Moran to in sponsorship and high profile Assistant Professional Josh Black the course. Addressing membership Sky TV coverage for this event, the From managing the shop at Armagh Monaghan Irish Challenge, which he says, “All clubs are facing the attracted 120 golfers from around GC which gave him good insight into challenges of having an ageing the world - with the winner Oliver running a business, to setting up his membership, so I see my job as own retail outlet at Concra, he has Wilson, a player in Nick getting that average age lowered.” Faldo’s team in 2008, finishing on built up 25 years’ retail experience 270 (-12). in the golf industry, and his business The 47 year-old’s experience and CMK Golf has benefitted from its enthusiasm for the new role is He continued his work in developing with Europe’s largest retail underage sections and, through group, TGI Golf. TGI gives him buying evident. “I look forward to meeting summer programmes and camps, power with a group of 480 fellow golf you all and getting to know you increased junior membership from professionals/partners throughout and maybe even helping you enjoy 15 kids in 2010 to 75 in 2020. He Ireland and the UK and access to all your golf a little more. One thing is also introduced a ladies Get into the leading brands, as well as support for certain, you will receive a warm Golf programme to boost female in running a business. Conor became welcome when you come to play at membership. To complement the a TGI golf board member in 2019 and Banbridge Golf Club.” For supporters course and clubhouse, he also built issues a monthly TGI e-newsletter up a strong reputation in coaching, to members to inform them of new of Manchester United and the Co retail and member services - developments in the golf industry. Armagh GAA team, you’ll be pleased providing members and visitors with to hear he’s in the same camp! a well-stocked and competitively However, in common with his priced golf shop, a club repair service, professional colleagues, his business Welcoming the appointment, Council a modern swing room for custom was hit by the arrival of the Covid Chairperson Paddy Malcolmson says, fitting and lessons, Flightscope/ pandemic last year. Course closures “We are certain that Conor will be Trackman 4 for swing and ball flight forced Concra Wood to make tough a tremendous asset as we strive to analysis, an 8-bay , financial decisions. “Unfortunately as well as promoting the course I was one of the casualties and build a club with a reputation for for visitors, and recruitment and lost my full retainer,” says Conor. providing first class member and retention of members. He attempted to keep going but visitor experiences”.

03 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

Peter takes reins as Eamonn takes up President US diplomatic post of Mid-Ulster BEST wishes to Eamonn and Gina Alliance McConville for their stay in the US. They relocated to Washington DC MEN’S Captain Peter Hillen is in January when Eamonn took up a the new President of the Mid post as Deputy Director of the Ulster Senior Alliance. He was NI Bureau. elected to the position this year, following in the steps The Bureau is the diplomatic of the illustrious mission of the NI Executive in North Dougie Stevenson. America, with offices in Washington DC and New York. It is the custodian “We didn’t play last year but, of the reputation of Northern given that we are all over a Ireland in North America, and its certain age and the sands of time are running against us, we role is to promote the profile of decided to engage in inter club in the US, develop understanding of US issues, and golf this year,” he says. Eamonn McConville. provide support for NI Ministers Mid Ulster Alliance comprises during their visits. as an avionics design engineer for a group of 10, from St Patrick’s/ the aircraft manufacturer Shorts/ Eamonn took up his US diplomatic Ardglass in the east to Omagh in Bombardier before moving into the the west. appointment having completed the 2018 Periodic Review as Secretary Civil Service in 1990 as a mechanical “Normally we visit nine venues, to the Boundary Commission of and electrical engineer in the 8 to a team, 4 best scores to Northern Ireland. In 2010, following Water Service. count. A league table ensues and the devolution of policing and justice A keen sportsman, Eamonn played the winners are presented at a powers to the Northern Ireland gaelic football at club, under age dinner at the last venue. This Assembly, he took up post as Private year we have agreed to play two county and college levels, winning Secretary to the Attorney General groups of 5 - with the winners of the Ryan Cup with the University for Northern Ireland. Prior to this each group meeting in the final.” of Ulster Jordanstown in 1985/86. role, Eamonn was responsible for His main interests now are golf and Peter’s encouraging any eligible programme managing a wide range skiing. Gina, who works for Digital members (aged over 65) to of issues including the reorganisation Shared Services / NI Civil Service, contact Sean McGreevy, the of local government under the is a dedicated golfer as well. No Banbridge Captain, if they are Review of Public Administration, the doubt they’ll visit some local golf interested in playing. inaugural Northern Ireland Youth courses such as the Washington Assembly, and the establishment of Golf & Country Club in Arlington, or the Attorney General’s Office. Stonewall GC at Lake Manassas. We’ll Smoking time of it An engineering graduate from the miss them both around the club and University of Ulster Jordanstown, look forward to hearing about Happiness is not Eamonn began his career working their adventures. a cigar called Hamlet. Our gardening group Happy 60th found 12 empty boxes at various stages of rustiness Birthday Denise at the rise on the left inside the main Denise McBrien celebrated her 60th birthday in entrance. Dumped in an established lockdown. Her family made her day by giving her practice from a car exiting the club. a golf themed cake, crafted by Rosehip. Please desist from littering , or more than smoking will kill you. 04 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

John Pampered pups back to US Kids golf

John McElroy gets back into the swing of competitive golf with the rollout of the US Kids Golf Summer Local Tour. Good luck John as you compete in Killymoon (9th May), Spa (16th May), Clandeboye (23rd May), Massereene (30th May), Roe Park (6th June) and Castlerock (13th June).

Two golfing households expanded their families during lockdown. Priscilla, an Afghan hound, moved in with Anita Acheson. While Lacey, a miniature sproodle, keeps Robbie and Glenys Haire busy. John had a win in Spa, and was tied 3rd in Killymoon. Buggy park extension

The extension to the buggy compound will accommodate 30 buggies in total, including buggies for hire from CMK Golf. The expansion entailed ground works, three lorry loads of stone, and new panels. Special thanks to Peter Hillen, Decky Barry, Sean McGreevy and the grounds staff for bringing this about. 05 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] Course increases birdie opportunities

TWELVE bird houses can the course where cardboard be spotted in trees around and plastics are separated the course, thanks to the for recycling. efforts of young siblings Increasingly, clubs are Poppy and Mikey Hannath focusing on sustainable and sponsorship by their golf development - on uncle Keith. enhancing the ecological Poppy (9) and Mikey (7), system and not eradicating children of Michael and it. Enniscorthy Golf Club in Tory, kept themselves Co Wexford prides itself on busy in lockdown by using eco friendly products manufacturing bird houses. where possible: 90% of And Keith purchased 12 for all fertilisers used are Barry Tumilty, Head Greenkeeper Chris Moran and Keith Hannah the golf course to land organic, and all of their new displaying some of the many bird houses. wee ‘birdies’. machines run on bio fuels. The boxes, which can be The club has two hectares seen at the back of the 5th, of prime habitat (wild at the 12th and 15th, are areas) and, untouched part of Head Greenkeeper by chemicals, are full Chris’s programme of of wildflowers such as sustainability for the course buttercups, violets, poppies, to attract wildlwife. white and red clover. They complement his Winter work programme efforts to date to optimise over the next few years the playing quality of the will see replacement of a golf course in harmony number of evergreens with with the conservation of its native trees. natural environment. “Golf is more than a game – as a green space, it can Mickey and Poppy Hannath, who were busy in lockdown making play a role in enriching bird houses. the health of the natural landscape and conserving ecosystems,” he sayd. Last year, he planted wildflower meadows around the course which not only attracted butterflies and bees, but also masked wild areas with a blaze of colour. More are planned, near the 5th and 16th. Chris also plans to introduce wooden litter Keith Hannath and Barry Tumilty, from Select Insurance, with the collection areas throughout bird houses, which have popped up around the course.

06 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com For the best range in top quality

New Odyssey White Hot Stroke Lab range

from £249 from to £269 £199

New Odyssey from Ten range £245

Tel: 028 4062 6189 BANBRIDGE GOLF CLUB | 116 Huntly Road Banbridge, Co Down BT32 3UR email: [email protected] MAY 2021 email: [email protected] Rory dips his toes in coaching

RORY BEST is to make his first foray into coaching with the Seattle Seawolves in America’s Major League Rugby. The former Ulster and Ireland captain, and honorary members of our club, is to take up the role of skills coach on the west coast, where he will be working alongside another former Ulster and Irish hooker, Allen Clarke. Rory, who is Ireland’s third most capped player of all time with 124 caps and also played 218 times for Ulster in his 16-year professional career, will be with the Seawolves for the remainder of the 2021 campaign. “Rory is current on World Rugby trends and playing techniques. He joins the Seawolves coaching staff to help build elite player skills and capabilities,” said a statement from the Seawolves. Keith Hannath and Rory Best, first to off after lockdown. He’s been acting in a technical The Seawolves are currently bottom consultancy role, following a chat of the Major League Rugby standings with Fermanagh man Adrian Balfour, with one win from four matches. co-founder of the Seawolves, and passing on advice remotely to the Since his retirement Rory has also team’s coaching staff. been working with the Ulster set-up He will continue to liaise with Seattle in a mentoring role on an informal remotely with a view to getting over basis. During the 2021 Six Nations, he to the States - pandemic allowing - was also spotted on our screens as a before the season ends in July. pundit for ITV. Whether the role will be a gateway In 2020 he released My into a long-term career in coaching Autobiography, in which he shares for Best remains to be seen. the angst and achievements of “It’s been quite good for me. They’ve his rugby career. Only 11 men in given me the opportunity to dip my history have played more Tests toe in the water under my terms. I than the Ulsterman, and his 14-year hope it’ll give me a bit of a feel for international career has provided a whether I want rugby to dominate wealth of experiences and lessons to my life again,” he says. share with readers.

PLEASE REPAIR ALL PITCHMARKS!

08 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] New corporate signage portrays a professional image

WITH the course closed for play until 1st April, projects such as roll-out of the new signage got a clear run - with the result that when play recommenced, the club portrayed a more professional feel. From the new ‘Welcome to Banbridge Golf Club’ signs at the front and rear entrances, and designated car parking signage, to new tee box signs and tee flags, the visual landscape was vastly improved. On the basis that first impressions are lasting impressions, the hedge at the entrance was also lowered to highlight the attractive stone feature. Substantial time and effort was invested by John Ewart, Paddy Malcolmson, Peter Hillen and Sean McGreevy, supported by the greens staff, to roll out the course signage - including preparation of the timber Businesses that have taken tee boxes to date posts, mounting the tee marker and Financing for • Plant & Agricultural Machinery • Commercial Vehicles sponsor plaques, and embedding Key Cutting • Cars, 4x4’s Watch Batteries & Straps Replaced • Asset Re-financing Locksmith Services for all of the above • Unsecured Personal Loans Remote Car Keys them in place. The fruits of their Shoe Repair  67 NEWRY STREET, BANBRIDGE  Tel: 028 302 68922 Mobile: 075 8120 1081 028 4066 2246 of successful Email: [email protected] labour are evident at all tee boxes, Tel: 078 5025 9435 @stuartsheelbar 40YEARS Financing

4 MAIN ST, LOUGHBRICKLAND, with marker and sponsor signage and much, BANBRIDGE BT32 3NQ much more... Phone: 028 4062 6461 reflecting a cohesive corporate look DOREENS

NEWSAGENTS CONOR McKENNA and feel. Design/production HEAD PROFESSIONAL | BANBRIDGE GOLF CLUB Tel: 028 4062 6189 Newry Street | Banbridge 18 HOLE COURSE • PRO-SHOP • BAR • RESTAURANT Email: [email protected] BAR & RESTAURANT To advertise in the next issue of our Club Newsletter email: [email protected]

of the artwork was supplied by 18 HOLE COURSE • PRO-SHOP • BAR • RESTAURANT John Oakes. Even better advice than your ...

Many thanks to all those who BANBRIDGE FENCiNG | DECKiNG | HARDWARE Full Bathroom Re-Furbishment • Banbridge (028) 4062 6639 TILES | BATHROOMS | 3D VIRTUAL DESIGN www.gillenandcosolicitors.co.uk • Dunmurry (028) 9061 2144 AFFINITY www.jbtimberproducts.co.uk availed of the opportunity to TILES & BATHROOMS 52 Bridge Street, Banbridge T: 028 4062 8483 promote their businesses, by sponsoring the signs: FENCiNG | DECKiNG | HARDWARE Hole 1, Marc Sands; Hole 2, David McCreedy; Hole 3, William Niblock; Hole 4, Shane McCrory; Hole 5, Conor McKenna; Hole 7, P J Hole 17, Chris Connor; Hole 18, Select Insurance (flags on the Johnston; Hole 10, Michael Gillen; The Eagle. tee sticks). Hole 12, Richard Kilpatrick; Hole 13, Sponsorship of signage also came Sponsorship opportunities still exist Jason Greenaway; Hole 15, Stuart from Sherwin Curran, Jason McCaw for the five remaining tee box signs Faulkner; Hole 16, Keith Hannath, and Mark Crory at the fence at 10th, at 6th, 8th, 9th, 11th and 14th with Barry Tumilty and Conor Doran; Linda Giles (entrance sign), and the following options:

• continued on page 10 09 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] New course signage

14th (premium site) - 1 year, £350; 2 years, £650; 3 years, £900. 6th, 8th, 9th, 11th – 1 year, £250; 2 years, £400; 3 years, £500. For each year, sponsors get two free 4-ball vouchers. An opportunity also exists to donate a new metal sign with club logo, to replace the wooden one above the balcony door. Expressions of interest can be conveyed to sponsorship convenor, John Ewart on 07926 168831. Sponsorship openings also arise annually for the fixtures card, score card, ladies and gents competitions, along with advertising options in the Eagle newsletter.

Do you want to see your business on the course? Michaelangelo aka Linda touches up the lettering on the entrance stone. Contact Sponsorship Convenor John Ewart on 079 2616 8831

DISCOUNT DECORATING PAINT & WALLPAPER SPECIALISTS www.discount-decorating.co.uk Tel: 028 406 62585

10 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] Return to golf Ladies gardening team to the fore

Great work was done by the ladies gardening group in advance of our re-opening to boost course presentation.

The men’s captain Peter and lady captain Kathleen hoist the club flag to mark the return of play on 1st April. The course was closed for 167 days were lost as a result of the three lockdowns. Lady Captain Kathleen admires the groundwork by greens staff in Golf is back! preparation for a wildflower meadow.

...but Covid-19 is still here Kerb stones relocated from Joy Gowdy’s garden enliven this feature at 10th. 11 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] wireless bluetooth earbuds compatible with any bluetooth device ultra quick connection incredible high quality sound even better price

£25 t.07477830685 12 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

Tel: 028 4062 6189 116 Huntly Road Banbridge, Co Down BT32 3UR email: [email protected]

13 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

More awards for Arizona’s leading light Mehaffey

OLIVIA Mehaffey has been recognised is pursuing a graduate degree in organisational as the 2021 Pac-12Women’s Golf Scholar leadership with a current 4.00 GPA. Electing to Athlete of the Year. The Royal Co. Down return for the 2020-21 season, the world number and Tandragee amateur has been a 18 ranked amateur has recorded three top-10 positive influence everywhere she’s played, finishes, highlighted by a second-place showing bringing attention to female golf in Ireland in ASU’s victory at the Clover Cup. That runner- while serving as a role model of aspiring up performance featured a career-best and golfers in Arizona. program-record 10-under 62 in the final round. A three-time First Team All- Additional career accomplishments include four Pac-12 performer (2017, 2018, individual event victories, highlighted by the 2019) and four time WGCA 2019 Pac-12 individual and 2019 NCAA Norman All-American (Second Team Regional titles, along with a contributor on ASU’s - 2018, 2019; Honourable 2017 NCAA National Championship team. She Mention - 2017, 2020), has amassed 23 career top-10 performances and Mehaffey has completed 69 rounds under par including 22 rounds in the her undergraduate 60s, all totals that rank among the best in NCAA degree in sociology history. She recently became a five-time Pac-12 with a 3.75 grade All-Conference honouree, the first in conference or point average and program history

COMPLETE RANGE OF MOTOCADDY & POWAKADDY TROLLEYS, BAGS, BATTERIES & ACCESSORIES IN STOCK

BUY A NEW ELECTRIC GOLF TROLLEY AND RECEIVE AT LEAST Trade-in discount when you £50 trade-in your old trolley

APPROVED ONLINE RETAILER SHOP ONLINE FOR A HUGE RANGE OF SPARE PARTS AT ELECTRICGOLFTROLLEYSPARES.COM

SHOP ONLINE FOR TROLLEYS, BAGS AND ACCESSORIES AT LAMBEGGOLFSHOP.COM

TEL: 028 9266 2738 :: E: [email protected]

14 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

Marketing placement for Alex Our membership AS part of her 3rd year numbers have placement for her now reached Consumer Management & Food Innovation BSc (Hons) degree course at UU Coleraine, Alex Haire Merton McDowell is will be completing a work our course ranger placement at the club. Alex, a familiar face as a member of the bar staff at weekends, will work Golf Ireland has confirmed that clubs can now go ahead with the 2021 Get Women with Conor on marketing into Golf programme. Our next programme to societies and visitors, as begins on Tues 1 June. It will consist of five well as working on the weeks coaching by our golf pro Conor at a fob refresh. cost of £50 and a wonderful membership offer of £100 for the rest of the season. Let your lady friends know.

We have a course information line to update you on course conditions in inclement weather. Tel: 078 8054 5543 weekdays from 7am, During lockdown, Lisburn GC ran a scheme weekends from 5.30am, April to Sept. to support those members shielding or lonely. Over 90 members availed of the service provided by volunteers.

Club embarks on Golf4All initiative

This summer, Banbridge Golf Club will Working with CARA and Disability Sport embark on a new Golf Ireland initiative, NI, Golf Ireland is offering a number of Golf4All. This programme seeks to increase online training workshops to provide awareness and participation while making appropriate training for volunteers and PGA The central focus of her golf more open and inclusive to people with professionals involved to ensure they have course is understanding the a disability. the information, knowledge and confidence role of the consumer and needed to deliver inclusive activities to all the importance of meeting A grant of £500 has been awarded by Golf ages and abilities to enhance their consumer demands within Ireland to assist us to deliver a Golf4All golfing experience. today’s marketplace, and programme, and the Club Manager her placement dovetails is working with the Head Pro to get a If you would be willing to help with the tourism and programme drawn up to work with Donard out, please contact the office as hospitality element of School and Birdies Golf (in conjunction with soon as possible. the course. Special Olympics) to offer individuals the Earlier in the year she opportunity to enjoy selected activities completed a placement this summer. with Food NI. 15 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

Ladies Fixtures 2021

DATE COMPETITION SPONSORS FORMAT 13/04/21 VIRTUAL FLAG FLIT Club Voucher

17/04/21 18 HOLE SWEEP STABLEFORD 20/04/21 THE BROOCHES M. HODGETT, S. MAGENNIS STABLEFORD 14 HOLES

24/04/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 27/04/21 18 HOLE CLUB Club Vouchers STABLEFORD QUALIFYING 01/05/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 03/05/21 INTEGRATED LADIES/MEN MONDAY 04/05/21 THE CHALLENGE CUP CUP STABLEFORD M. LONGMORE, Y. GALLOWAY, L. ARMSTRONG

08/05/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 11/05/21 THE CHRONICLE CUP CUP WINNER, M. HODGETT STABLEFORD Section prizes Club Vouchers

15/05/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 18/05/21 ROSEMARY COCKS ROSEBOWL WINNER, MISS DESIGNER GOLF STROKE (1) ROSEBOWL Section prizes Club Vouchers

22/05/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 25/05/21 PEGGY NELSON Qualifying for Dunmurry 5th July STABLEFORD QUALIFIER NOTE: Handicap Index Sections A 15.9 and under/ B 16 - 23.9/ C 24 - 36 LADY VICE A. LAVERY, M. QUINN, S. ENGLISH 26/05/21 R & A 9 HOLE Qualifying for Rockmount with Banbridge man 8th STABLEFORD WEDNESDAY June. Club Voucher 28/05/21 FUN TEAM EVENT FRIDAY 9 HOLE SCRAMBLE 29/05/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 31/05/21 INTEGRATED LADIES/MEN OPEN MONDAY 01/06/21 MARY PETERS LADY CAPTAIN K. SMYTH, V. MALCOLMSON, STABLEFORD S. MURFITT 05/06/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 08/06/21 FUN 3 BALL SCRAMBLE STABLEFORD

12/06/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFER STABLEFORD 15/06/21 DENISE RUSSELL THE WHAN FAMILY STABLEFORD ENDEAVOUR GLOBE 19/06/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 22/06/21 KATHLEEN ORR SALVER SALVER STROKE (2) D. NELSON, A-M. CANAVAN, K. SAWYERS 25/06/21 PAIRS GREENSOMES FRIDAY 26/06/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 29/06/21 DAISY FERGUSON Qualifying for RCD 2nd Aug STABLEFORD GREENSOMES NOTE: Lower course h’cap x 0.6 / higher course h’cap x 0.6 Max 28 playing h’cap combined

02/07/21 9 HOLES LADY CAPTAIN’S MIXED STABLEFORD FRIDAY 03/07/21 18 HOLES LADY CAPTAIN’S DAY STABLEFORD

06/07/21 O2 TROPHY TROPHY STABLEFORD M. DOOHER, V. FAULKNER, E. MAYNE, W. TODD 10/07/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 13/07/21 THE MALCOLMSON CUP CUP STROKE (3) Club Vouchers 17/07/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 20/07/21 18 HOLES Ladies play for MEN’S CAPTAIN’S PRIZES STABLEFORD

23/07/21 9 HOLES MEN’S CAPTAIN’S MIXED STABLEFORD

16 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

Ladies Fixtures 2021

FRIDAY

24/07/21 18 HOLES MEN’S CAPTAIN’S DAY STABLEFORD

27/07/21 NELLIE GARRETT Qualifying for Knock 2nd Sept STABLEFORD NOTE: Max playing h’cap 56 V. WILLDRIDGE, B. CUNNINGHAM, D. GALLAGHER, G. HAIRE 30/07/21 OUTING TO ROCKMOUNT STABLEFORD FRIDAY 31/07/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 03/08/21 18 HOLE SEMI OPEN MARTIN McALEENAN STABLEFORD 07/08/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 08/08/21 HORSESHOE LADIES V MEN MATCHPLAY SUNDAY 10/08/21 18 HOLES PRESIDENT’S WEEK STABLEFORD

13/08/21 18 HOLES STABLEFORD FRIDAY 14/08/21 18 HOLES STABLEFORD

17/08/21 PGA TANKARD CLUB PROFESSIONAL CONOR 18/08/21 PAST CAPTAINS K. CURRAN, S. MAGENNIS STABLEFORD WEDNESDAY 21/08/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 24/08/21 THE CENTENARY CUP R. McCANDLESS, L. RAMSEY, B. BOYCE STABLEFORD

27/08/21 MIXED FORMAT TBC FRIDAY 28/08/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 31/08/21 CHAMPIONS DAY + Club Vouchers STABLEFORD 18 HOLES

03/09/21 CHARITY FRIDAY

04/09/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 06 - PAST CAPTAINS’ OUTING LOUGH ERNE 08/09/21 07/09/21 18 HOLES Club Vouchers

11/09/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER

14/09/21 TURKEY & HAM FRED ELLIOTT STABLEFORD Club Vouchers 18/09/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 21/09/21 9 HOLE ECLECTIC Club Vouchers STROKE online entry 25/09/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 28/09/21 9 HOLE online entry Club Vouchers STABLEFORD 02/10/21 RED BLOCK QUALIFIER STABLEFORD 05/10/21 PAINT THE COURSE PINK 12/10/21 AUTUMN LEAGUE STARTS – SHOOTER PROPERTY SERVICES 03/12/21 AUTUMN LEAGUE DINNER 19/12/21 CHRISTMAS JUMPER 9 HOLE SUNDAY

17 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

LADIES RESULTS

13th April, Virtual Flag Flit - Valerie Malcolmson 17th April, 18 hole sweep - Ada Lavery 20th April, The Brooches - Megan Whan, Linda Giles (sponsors Mildred Hodgett & Susan Magennis) 24th April, Red Block Qualifier - Linda Giles 27th April, 18 hole Qualifying - Lorna Poots 1st May, Red Block Qualifier - Ann Magennis 4th May, The Challenge Cup - Helen Smyth (sponsors Liz Armstrong, Yvonne Galloway, Mary Longmore) 8th May, Red Block Qualifier - Fionnuala Crossey 11th May, The Chronicle Cup - Helen Cocks (sponsor Hodgetts/ Banbridge Chronicle) 15th May, Red Block Qualifier - Helen Smyth, winner of the Challenge Cup, sponsored by Mary Longmore, Yvonne Galloway and Liz Armstrong. Ann Mairs

Megan Whan and Linda Giles, winners of The Brooches competition, Helen Cocks, winner of the Chronicle Cup, sponsored by Richard Hodgett. sponsored by Mildred Hodgett and Susan Magennis. 18 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] ...Around the Club

19 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected] NewsGREENKEEPING CHRIS MORAN Head Greenkeeper Fairways open for play again

IT’S great to see members and visitors back playing on the fairways of Banbridge. It’s been a long winter and the weather hasn’t been too kind. The course got a long recovery period before its re- opening on 1st April. During the lockdown, greens staff were put on flexi furlough from the start of the new year and brought back when course conditions were favorable to continue our winter projects that had started in October 2020. Since starting the role as Head Greenkeeper, my plan has always been to have 18 holes open throughout the winter months. With increasing pressure being caused by more extreme weather, drainage work has been significant. Holes 5-9 is my main target to improve playability. The start of February, the drainage work on the 5th and 9th fairways was completed and has proved a great success. With the addition to secondary drainage on our 5th hole, the same method will be applied to the other wet areas throughout the course. The open drain between the 6th and 7th holes will be vital for removing water from this area. This autumn we will be adding a gravel bander to our fleet of machinery. Gravel banding is a process where the soil is opened up by a vibrating stainless steel tine and the gravel fed immediately into the slot. A wheel or roller on the back of the machine partly closes the band to enable this area to be back in play immediately afterwards. With the course reopened, it has since seen heavy traffic. It’s great to see all members back enjoying their golf and our greens staff kindly request that all members Overhead pic of recent drainage work. repair your pitch marks. As pitchmarks are becoming ongoing low overnight temperatures. Who would have very common, can all members please carry a pitchmark thought we would still be getting coverings of frost in May. repair. There are a number of reasons why you as a player should care for your greens and repair not just your I would like to take this opportunity to thank the pitchmarks, but any others you find. volunteers who give up their time to get the course ready during lockdown, including the gardening club who have The greens staff are now getting into a rountine and all the flowerbeds looking well. This is much appreciated carrying out daily tasks to produce a consistent course by the greens staff. through the playing season. Currently, we are easily a month behind in terms of growth and recovery due to Happy golfing.

20 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com 18 HOLE COURSE • PRO-SHOP • BAR • RESTAURANT

18 HOLE COURSE • PRO-SHOP • BAR • RESTAURANT

‘Get

A Fabulous Introduction to Golf Women5 COACHING into SESSIONS Golf’ WITH GOLF PROFESSIONAL AT A COST OF £50 TUESDAY 1st JUNE 2021 at BANBRIDGE GOLF CLUB WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE UP AN INTRODUCTORY MEMBERSHIP OFFER OF ONLY

Contact: CONOR, HEAD PROFESSIONAL FOR THE REST OF on 028 4062 6189 or by email: [email protected] THE SEASON for further information

INFORMATION EVENING will be held in the Clubhouse at 7.00pm on WEDNESDAY 26th MAY ‘21 MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

NewsOFFICE SANDRA DUPREY Club Manager Buzz is back at the Club

It is great to see the buzz about the clubhouse with the new Club V1 member app and I would and course once again. We are looking forward still try to encourage as many members as to seeing members and visitors permitted back possible to download this app. It allows you to inside the bar/restaurant again in the not too keep us up to date with your current contact distant future as well. Just as a reminder: All details, you can check on your bar spend/top those house members who have not yet paid up online, view and pay member invoices/ their annual subs should now consider getting outstanding balances etc. You need to hold a in touch to renew their membership on time for unique email address on our system so, if you the lifting of restrictions. have family using the same address, simply let us know and we can temporarily remove I would like to welcome Conor McKenna on the email address of the other family member board as our Head Professional. Conor and I to allow you to get your app set up and, once are working very closely together to set up new/ complete, then we can input the amended procedures to help ensure the smooth addresses again. running of all/any member or visitor services. We are updating our society information The interviews for the Assistant Head Green and pulling together a fresh emailing list for Keeper are under way and we look forward to promotional offers etc. If you are involved in welcoming a new member of the greens team to a golf society, we would ask that you pass the our staff very soon. contact details to us so your society can be We also welcome Alex Haire to the club on included in any offers/information we will be a university placement. Alex is studying sending out shortly. Hospitality and she is helping us out with a few We are getting things put in place to very specific projects involving societies and also recommence the cadet coaching and also local accommodation providers. We hope the juvenile coaching. May I remind all parents experience gained will stand her in good stead of the cadet and juvenile members that all for her degree and also her career choice down subs must have been paid in full before their the line. children can avail of any such activities. Get in The office continues to be able to be contacted touch with the office asap to clear any balance. via email and phone and also via the side Since the last Eagle was published, the office has window. The front foyer and office are still gone through the annual invoice run, payment closed to inside enquiries but please do get in processing, new member applications processed touch if you need help with any etc. We have tried to keep members up to date member issues.

22 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com 9 AFTER 18

My favourite course Royal County Down or Royal Banbridge! My best golfing experience Going to the Ryder Cup in Valderrama and meeting . My ideal job Being a famous golfer and travelling the world with a stop-off at the 19th hole at every course My best holiday memory For my 65th birthday, we went to Las Vegas. We went on a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. Good company on the trip and a little flutter thrown in. My favourite film The Magnificent Seven (the original). I always fancied myself as a bit of a cowboy! My last meal on Death Row The Seven Stars special with garlic potatoes. I’ve heard it’s the best food around. The one item I can’t live without Aside from my wife, my golf clubs. The four people I’d most like to invite to a dinner party Padraig Harrington, the late Brendan Grace, and Stephen Hendry. The advice I’d give my 18-year-old self This month we put I still feel like I am 18 years the questions to men’s old, so I would say never Vice Captain take life too seriously and never turn down an invite PJ JOHNSTON as you might not get asked again.

23 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

We look forward to The Clubhouse Grill reopening for internal dining on 24th May. Meanwhile, garden service is available from the following menus, along with take-away and delivery. Bookings are mandatory.

24 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com MAY 2021 email: [email protected]

Pro Shop taking shape, with more stock arriving daily

From junior, ladies and mens clothing, we have it all...

25 email: [email protected] banbridgegolfclub.com Gift Vouchers now available

For the best range in Clothing, Shoes & Gloves

CONOR McKENNA HEAD PROFESSIONAL | BANBRIDGE GOLF CLUB Tel: 028 4062 6189

18 HOLE COURSE • PRO-SHOP • BAR • RESTAURANT

18 HOLE COURSE • PRO-SHOP • BAR • RESTAURANT PRO SHOP COACHING REPAIRS CUSTOM FITTING