Golf Club Atlas

GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture => Topic started by: Sean_A on June 24, 2008, 05:19:27 AM

Title: 2008 Mayo & Sligo Tour: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on June 24, 2008, 05:19:27 AM
I was back in this glorious part of the world this past week playing Strandhill, Rosses Point, Carne & Enniscrone.  All four courses are completely different.  Rosses Point was certainly the star in terms of the combination of land forms, burns & bunkers to create architectural interest.  I previosuly wasn't overly keen on this course, but this additional visit confirms that the course is better than I  thought.  There are still aspects I didn't like and wonder why simple changes aren't made, but there you go.  Another surprise for me was Strandhill.  The contrast of this very natural course with Rosses Point's almost obsessional attempt to create strategy is striking.  There is no question Rosses Point is the better course, but I am not so sure I would rather pay double the green fee for the privilege on a regular basis.  First up, a brief look at Strandhill.

The 1st is an interesting opening hole with a slideaway green.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/792/40207573784_0c616719ce_b.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/792/40207573784_0c616719ce_b.jpg)

A cool short hole follows. 
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/817/40916346361_e8eb64ef37_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/817/40916346361_e8eb64ef37_b.jpg)

I like the shelf green 4th. 
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/784/40873910572_e3ed00f081_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/784/40873910572_e3ed00f081_b.jpg)

The 5th, however, is probably the best hole on the course.  The drive from high above is as hard as one wants to make it, but the real highlight is the humpty bumpty fairway.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/817/40916345711_a1db72ef9e_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/817/40916345711_a1db72ef9e_b.jpg)

The 6th is a good hole, simple hole.  Drive right for the best line in with safety and harder approach down the left.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/815/40873910512_49955307dd_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/815/40873910512_49955307dd_b.jpg)

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4785/40916345531_b9aed2c47d_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4785/40916345531_b9aed2c47d_b.jpg)

Not a bad hole, but the 7th doesn't take advantage of its prime location along the beach.  The 8th is a good short par 4 with a tricky green.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/793/40916346011_629900a958_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/793/40916346011_629900a958_b.jpg)

The next four holes are all goodish, but the uphill 12th stands out as the best of the group.  The 13th, however, is the one folks will likely remember most.  The drive is downhill and blind, but it is crucial to hit the fairway because the green is out of this world. 
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4781/40207573224_c41a9353da_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4781/40207573224_c41a9353da_b.jpg)

A tough as old boots par 3 follows at 14...how to keep the ball on the green when playing downwind?
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/811/40873910432_c980fd0368_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/811/40873910432_c980fd0368_b.jpg)

15 takes us back up to high ground as a lesser verson of the 12th.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4795/40916345391_17bf2573c7_b.jpg) (https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4795/40916345391_17bf2573c7_b.jpg)

From here the course cruises home and finishes with a good 18th playing uphill. Given the property is 95 acres the course works wonderfully well. However, because of the handful of blandish holes I couldn't give Strandhill a star, but I would recommend it.  Many in our group were so so on Strandhill, but I was taken with it and in terms of favourites would only place Strandhill slightly behind the others.  As we all know, Ireland has become frightfully expensive.  Not so with Strandhill.  With its 40 Euro day rate it competes with the best of the bargain courses to be found in GB&I and I will certainly seek a return engagement if prices don't go Irish wild. 2008

Carne
http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35268.msg713184.html#msg713184 (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35268.msg713184.html#msg713184)

Enniscrone
http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35273.0.html (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35273.0.html)

Rosses Point
http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35264.msg711429.html#msg711429 (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35264.msg711429.html#msg711429)

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on June 24, 2008, 06:24:37 AM
Thanks Sean... Strandhill is a course I have still never made it to...

I'm beginning to think that the West / North-West of Ireland has a bigger number of top quality golf courses than anywhere else on the planet...
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Bart Bradley on June 24, 2008, 06:30:45 AM
Sean:

Amazing.  Thank you.

Do you think you could make a master directory of your course reviews like Art made for the Pacific Dunes photo tour?  I think it would be great to have a single thread directory where we could go and review all of these amazing posts.  Keep up the great work.

Bart
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Thomas MacWood on June 24, 2008, 07:03:02 AM
Sean
It looks like great fun. Were you able to get any info on the history of this course?
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: mike_malone on June 24, 2008, 09:36:06 AM
 Sean,

   I thought my next trip would only be Donegal, but you have convinced me to start here on my way north, thanks.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Phil McDade on June 24, 2008, 09:44:09 AM
Sean:

Love the terrain; the cartpaths are quite scarring to an otherwise interesting landscape (see pics 2,3 and 5 esp.). Can't wait to see the Carne thread.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Chris Ord on June 24, 2008, 11:29:45 AM
great pictures.  i hadn't heard much about strandhill.  the course looks like a blast to play.  i even got a kick out of the turret-looking bunker on the first hole.  yes, it's manufactured, but it somehow seems to scream "bunker".  it has almost a wwII vibe to it.  that said, i'm not sure i'd want to see an entire course of bunkers like that. 
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on June 24, 2008, 12:35:57 PM
Sean
It looks like great fun. Were you able to get any info on the history of this course?
Tommy Mac

No, I don't have any idea who did what at Strandhill.  Though its obvious that it wasn't just a botch job.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Tommy Williamsen on June 24, 2008, 12:42:38 PM
I think I made a mistake missing this course.  When I played Sligo the guys in the pro shop told me to skip it.  They dissed it pretty badly.  Not sure why when I see the pictures.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Tony_Muldoon on June 24, 2008, 04:56:18 PM
Sean
It looks like great fun. Were you able to get any info on the history of this course?

Trolleys and Squibs a touring book from yr. 2000  give it two shamrocks and say it was redesigned to 18 holes by Eddie Hackett.   The authors Loise and Rick Miracle take issue with how tight someof it is and 2someof the greensare severely undulating".   Sounds like GCA heaven. ;D


Again thanks, Sean.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on June 24, 2008, 06:05:12 PM
Tony

One of the very cool things about Strandhill is that it has just about as many superb holes as all the other courses in the area.  Golfers claim that golf is not about the good shots, but how good the bad ones are.  Perhaps the quality of a course can best be determined by how good the the weak holes are. 

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Scott Whitley on June 24, 2008, 08:16:34 PM
Thanks for the great memories of Strandhill, Sean.

As for routing credit, the course was originally laid out as a nine-holer in the early 1930s, was extended to 18 holes in 1970 by John McGonigle (head professional at Rosses Point at the time) - he gets the credit for the 13th, among other holes - and further refined by Martin Niland in the 1980s.   All in all, it is mostly a home-made affair, and a charming one at that!
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on June 30, 2008, 03:17:02 AM
Sean:

Amazing.  Thank you.

Do you think you could make a master directory of your course reviews like Art made for the Pacific Dunes photo tour?  I think it would be great to have a single thread directory where we could go and review all of these amazing posts.  Keep up the great work.

Bart

Bart

That would be interesting to do.  I have posted pix of one hell of a load of GB&I courses.  When combined with Philip G's, Tony M's and a few others it could be quite an archive.  I am afraid it is down to Ran to organize.  I delete nearly all the pix I take after posting here and so GCA.com is the only depository I use. 

Ciao 
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Reef Wilson on July 03, 2008, 01:32:47 AM
Sean:

Amazing.  Thank you.

Do you think you could make a master directory of your course reviews like Art made for the Pacific Dunes photo tour?  I think it would be great to have a single thread directory where we could go and review all of these amazing posts.  Keep up the great work.

Bart

Bart

That would be interesting to do.  I have posted pix of one hell of a load of GB&I courses.  When combined with Philip G's, Tony M's and a few others it could be quite an archive.  I am afraid it is down to Ran to organize.  I delete nearly all the pix I take after posting here and so GCA.com is the only depository I use. 

Ciao 

I had been thinking along the same lines as Bart. These types of photo course reviews are one of my favorite parts of this site. Sean, yours especially are so well shot and written. Thanks for doing these!

I just went back to investigate taking it upon myself putting together a thread for these like Art's for PD. Unfortunately, it seems a lot of the older photos are no longer being hosted where they originally were.

I assume this is a case of it being free hosting and if the files are not accessed frequently enough, the hosting service makes them no longer available. Some of them are not even that old.

Not sure what can be done about this, but it is a shame. Below are a couple of examples. It would be nice if we could come up with a common photo hosting site that everyone here could use where we know this wouldn't happen. I'd be happy to chip in on that.

Reef

PENNARD REVISITED - back 9 (http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,25770.0.html)

Stoneham (http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,30823.0.html)
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on July 03, 2008, 01:59:23 AM
Sean:

Amazing.  Thank you.

Do you think you could make a master directory of your course reviews like Art made for the Pacific Dunes photo tour?  I think it would be great to have a single thread directory where we could go and review all of these amazing posts.  Keep up the great work.

Bart

Bart

That would be interesting to do.  I have posted pix of one hell of a load of GB&I courses.  When combined with Philip G's, Tony M's and a few others it could be quite an archive.  I am afraid it is down to Ran to organize.  I delete nearly all the pix I take after posting here and so GCA.com is the only depository I use. 

Ciao 

I had been thinking along the same lines as Bart. These types of photo course reviews are one of my favorite parts of this site. Sean, yours especially are so well shot and written. Thanks for doing these!

I just went back to investigate taking it upon myself putting together a thread for these like Art's for PD. Unfortunately, it seems a lot of the older photos are no longer being hosted where they originally were.

I assume this is a case of it being free hosting and if the files are not accessed frequently enough, the hosting service makes them no longer available. Some of them are not even that old.

Not sure what can be done about this, but it is a shame. Below are a couple of examples. It would be nice if we could come up with a common photo hosting site that everyone here could use where we know this wouldn't happen. I'd be happy to chip in on that.

Reef

PENNARD REVISITED - back 9 (http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,25770.0.html)

Stoneham (http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,30823.0.html)

Reef

I too think its a shame that much of the meat n bones of this site is lost while a load of garbage is kept.  I spose thats how the system works - much like the rest of life.  To be fair (and I can't speak for anybody else), I don't in anyway edit these reviews and because of this I don't see any huge loss.  If they were to be kept on file I may do less of them because the editing process is the real time cruncher.  Even so, all considered, I do think some sort of effort should be made to preserve these reviews by everybody.  I don't know how many times I forget about a course I saw reviewed and can't remember when or where (is there a song there?).  Perhaps its as simple as Ran creating a member review section where these deals can be kept.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on August 19, 2010, 02:32:49 PM
I'm just back from a quick tour of the North-West which included Rosses Point, Murvagh, Enniscrone, Carne and my first visit to Strandhill.

I won't comment on the others as they are better known but I think Strandhill should be a must stop for anyone in the area. As it stands, it is the weakest of the five although if they got rid of 9, 10 & 11 and built in to the dunes at the back (which they own), that could definitely change. However, even without that, it is fun, fun, fun with some pretty great green complexes that are cut on existing contours at grade level and some flatter plateau greens (less admirable) that are more than likely the work of Eddie Hackett by the look of them.

I think Sean is more in to big dunes than I am. I enjoyed the front nine most with 4 being the only weak hole and 3 and 9 being merely OK. The rest were all good to excellent and No.5 is all world in my mind with a high angled tee shot to the most rumpled fairway I have seen anywhere and a semi-blind approach (flag-stick only) to an excellent green. 10 & 11 are average (playing up and down) and would make a perfect spot for a driving range. 12 plays up and left to a skyline green and is pretty good. I've yet to make my mind up on 13 which is definite quirk to the smallest green I have seen (guess under 200m2) placed between two dunes (reminiscent of The Dell at Lahinch but with some visibility). Quite liked the par-3 14th but also unsure of the big dune 15th which plays to one of those flat elevated Hackett plateaus. 16, 17 and 18 are all pretty good holes in my book.

To be honest with you, I think Strandhill could be an absolute cracker with a little budget and previous mentioned moderations behind it. The ground game is alive and well there, that's for sure.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on August 19, 2010, 04:09:36 PM
I'm just back from a quick tour of the North-West which included Rosses Point, Murvagh, Enniscrone, Carne and my first visit to Strandhill.

I won't comment on the others as they are better known but I think Strandhill should be a must stop for anyone in the area. As it stands, it is the weakest of the five although if they got rid of 9, 10 & 11 and built in to the dunes at the back (which they own), that could definitely change. However, even without that, it is fun, fun, fun with some pretty great green complexes that are cut on existing contours at grade level and some flatter plateau greens (less admirable) that are more than likely the work of Eddie Hackett by the look of them.

I think Sean is more in to big dunes than I am. I enjoyed the front nine most with 4 being the only weak hole and 3 and 9 being merely OK. The rest were all good to excellent and No.5 is all world in my mind with a high angled tee shot to the most rumpled fairway I have seen anywhere and a semi-blind approach (flag-stick only) to an excellent green. 10 & 11 are average (playing up and down) and would make a perfect spot for a driving range. 12 plays up and left to a skyline green and is pretty good. I've yet to make my mind up on 13 which is definite quirk to the smallest green I have seen (guess under 200m2) placed between two dunes (reminiscent of The Dell at Lahinch but with some visibility). Quite liked the par-3 14th but also unsure of the big dune 15th which plays to one of those flat elevated Hackett plateaus. 16, 17 and 18 are all pretty good holes in my book.

To be honest with you, I think Strandhill could be an absolute cracker with a little budget and previous mentioned moderations behind it. The ground game is alive and well there, that's for sure.

Ally

Its a neat little course eh?  I enjoyed it immensely despite some lame holes and a few which should be far better (7 & 8 especially).  I like the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th 8th, 14th and 18th best so I am surprised you say I like the bigger dunes - I don't tend to unless tempered with flatter holes as a counterbalance.  The hole which really intrigues me is #8.  If they would just cut down some rough for this blind shot I think it could be an all-world short par 4.  On the other side of the coin, #7, on the prime land was dead boring.

I don't think the course needs to use the huge dunes, just work on what already exists and make sure they are getting the best out of the land. 

Ciao   
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on August 20, 2010, 04:29:46 AM
I'm just back from a quick tour of the North-West which included Rosses Point, Murvagh, Enniscrone, Carne and my first visit to Strandhill.

I won't comment on the others as they are better known but I think Strandhill should be a must stop for anyone in the area. As it stands, it is the weakest of the five although if they got rid of 9, 10 & 11 and built in to the dunes at the back (which they own), that could definitely change. However, even without that, it is fun, fun, fun with some pretty great green complexes that are cut on existing contours at grade level and some flatter plateau greens (less admirable) that are more than likely the work of Eddie Hackett by the look of them.

I think Sean is more in to big dunes than I am. I enjoyed the front nine most with 4 being the only weak hole and 3 and 9 being merely OK. The rest were all good to excellent and No.5 is all world in my mind with a high angled tee shot to the most rumpled fairway I have seen anywhere and a semi-blind approach (flag-stick only) to an excellent green. 10 & 11 are average (playing up and down) and would make a perfect spot for a driving range. 12 plays up and left to a skyline green and is pretty good. I've yet to make my mind up on 13 which is definite quirk to the smallest green I have seen (guess under 200m2) placed between two dunes (reminiscent of The Dell at Lahinch but with some visibility). Quite liked the par-3 14th but also unsure of the big dune 15th which plays to one of those flat elevated Hackett plateaus. 16, 17 and 18 are all pretty good holes in my book.

To be honest with you, I think Strandhill could be an absolute cracker with a little budget and previous mentioned moderations behind it. The ground game is alive and well there, that's for sure.

Ally

Its a neat little course eh?  I enjoyed it immensely despite some lame holes and a few which should be far better (7 & 8 especially).  I like the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th 8th, 14th and 18th best so I am surprised you say I like the bigger dunes - I don't tend to unless tempered with flatter holes as a counterbalance.  The hole which really intrigues me is #8.  If they would just cut down some rough for this blind shot I think it could be an all-world short par 4.  On the other side of the coin, #7, on the prime land was dead boring.

I don't think the course needs to use the huge dunes, just work on what already exists and make sure they are getting the best out of the land. 

Ciao   

It's a little perverse for me to say that I'm not a fan of huge dunes and then say that they should get rid of 9, 10 & 11 and replace them with the big stuff at the back. I guess I see a lot of "big dune" holes that people rave about that are just too much in my opinion and don't really work with the land.

In this case though, no's 4, 9, 10 & 11 are undoubtedly weak and if the land suits, the permitting was achieved and the budget allows, then one fell swoop could get rid of all four of those holes by building 3 new ones (and modifying the 4th to tie in). I'm more or less exactly with you on the holes you like best though. Maybe you're being a bit hard on the 7th.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on August 20, 2010, 05:20:06 AM
I'm just back from a quick tour of the North-West which included Rosses Point, Murvagh, Enniscrone, Carne and my first visit to Strandhill.

I won't comment on the others as they are better known but I think Strandhill should be a must stop for anyone in the area. As it stands, it is the weakest of the five although if they got rid of 9, 10 & 11 and built in to the dunes at the back (which they own), that could definitely change. However, even without that, it is fun, fun, fun with some pretty great green complexes that are cut on existing contours at grade level and some flatter plateau greens (less admirable) that are more than likely the work of Eddie Hackett by the look of them.

I think Sean is more in to big dunes than I am. I enjoyed the front nine most with 4 being the only weak hole and 3 and 9 being merely OK. The rest were all good to excellent and No.5 is all world in my mind with a high angled tee shot to the most rumpled fairway I have seen anywhere and a semi-blind approach (flag-stick only) to an excellent green. 10 & 11 are average (playing up and down) and would make a perfect spot for a driving range. 12 plays up and left to a skyline green and is pretty good. I've yet to make my mind up on 13 which is definite quirk to the smallest green I have seen (guess under 200m2) placed between two dunes (reminiscent of The Dell at Lahinch but with some visibility). Quite liked the par-3 14th but also unsure of the big dune 15th which plays to one of those flat elevated Hackett plateaus. 16, 17 and 18 are all pretty good holes in my book.

To be honest with you, I think Strandhill could be an absolute cracker with a little budget and previous mentioned moderations behind it. The ground game is alive and well there, that's for sure.

Ally

Its a neat little course eh?  I enjoyed it immensely despite some lame holes and a few which should be far better (7 & 8 especially).  I like the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th 8th, 14th and 18th best so I am surprised you say I like the bigger dunes - I don't tend to unless tempered with flatter holes as a counterbalance.  The hole which really intrigues me is #8.  If they would just cut down some rough for this blind shot I think it could be an all-world short par 4.  On the other side of the coin, #7, on the prime land was dead boring.

I don't think the course needs to use the huge dunes, just work on what already exists and make sure they are getting the best out of the land.  

Ciao  

It's a little perverse for me to say that I'm not a fan of huge dunes and then say that they should get rid of 9, 10 & 11 and replace them with the big stuff at the back. I guess I see a lot of "big dune" holes that people rave about that are just too much in my opinion and don't really work with the land.

In this case though, no's 4, 9, 10 & 11 are undoubtedly weak and if the land suits, the permitting was achieved and the budget allows, then one fell swoop could get rid of all four of those holes by building 3 new ones (and modifying the 4th to tie in). I'm more or less exactly with you on the holes you like best though. Maybe you're being a bit hard on the 7th.

Ally

My point is the holes you mention don't have to be weak and indeed they aren't bad.  They need some tweaking, but there is nothing wrong with the terrain.  Really, 10 and 11 could be very good holes.  The two serious let down holes for me are 9 and 17.  

The 7th is a glorious opportunity to create something VERY special.  Instead we get a hole much like those around 9-11.  IMO, this is a total waste.  

I also like the 4th becasue it is so stark - in your face - no compromise approach.  It does look quite manufactured, but I have given up on that being all important.  Indeed, sometimes the manufactured look is quite appealing.

The bottom line for me is the course is good enough at the current prices.  I am not in favour of always looking to improve courses (unless it is a very simple and cheap process) which already do their job admirably.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Jack_Marr on August 20, 2010, 06:23:51 AM
Did the members have some part in the design?

It's a lovely course that's often overlooked.

The fairway on No.5 reminds me of the moguls that skiers go over.  I can't remember for sure, but there might be about 100 spots on the fairway where you can see the flag and about 100 where you can't...

I think they could extend into those dunes just to make a little more space on the course. It's on a very small site, as far as I can remember.
John
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on August 20, 2010, 07:18:42 AM
Sean,

No. 4 plays as a short par-4 with no options and a big walk back from No.3 green (just to create the short par-4) causing large safety issues from No. 3 tees. It is crying out to be a par-3 with the green moved closer to the shore and the slope in front softened... Either that or a new par 4 - up and over the hill. The short par-4 is completely forced because of the previous two short holes.

I think seven could be improved but maybe not by a whole lot. I quite liked it. It was like the 3rd at Carne but not quite as good.

I got a sense of deflation walking up 10 knowing that I was coming right back down 11 (which had a decent green site all the same). I think the club have had safety problems with No.10 and the access road and the position is perfect for a practice area.

No. 17 is only OK, I'll give you that. But it's long and asks for a good long iron at a critical time. Similar to No. 16 at Rosses Point.

Jack, I reckon you're right about No.5 fairway. It's an amazing piece of land.

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Sean_A on August 20, 2010, 07:35:52 AM
Sean,

No. 4 plays as a short par-4 with no options and a big walk back from No.3 green (just to create the short par-4) causing large safety issues from No. 3 tees. It is crying out to be a par-3 with the green moved closer to the shore and the slope in front softened... Either that or a new par 4 - up and over the hill. The short par-4 is completely forced because of the previous two short holes.

I think seven could be improved but maybe not by a whole lot. I quite liked it. It was like the 3rd at Carne but not quite as good.

I got a sense of deflation walking up 10 knowing that I was coming right back down 11 (which had a decent green site all the same). I think the club have had safety problems with No.10 and the access road and the position is perfect for a practice area.

No. 17 is only OK, I'll give you that. But it's long and asks for a good long iron at a critical time. Similar to No. 16 at Rosses Point.

Jack, I reckon you're right about No.5 fairway. It's an amazing piece of land.



Ally

I could see #4 being a par 3 with the same green complex.  I don't see any particular need to spend money on a new green over the hill and away from the 5th tee.  It would certainly be very different from the 2nd and 14th which is appealing.    

#10 is a bit dangerous with the road and folks blasting at that green, but in a way this is what makes it a decent hole!  Its a dangerous drive, but can reward the player who pulls it off.  Its the setting more than anything which detracts from the hole.  Stick it in the middle of the course and few would think it is boring.    

There is no question #5 is my favourite hole not only because of the humpty bumpty land which essentially causes havoc for the second especially if one is going for the green (I think many would call it unfair), but also because the tee shot is very interesting with all that space and how it uses the 17th fairway as well.  

Incidentally, on an otherwise terrible website I discovered that one can play Enniscrone, Rosses Point and Strandhill for 118 Euros!

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on August 20, 2010, 08:57:56 AM
Sean,

No. 4 plays as a short par-4 with no options and a big walk back from No.3 green (just to create the short par-4) causing large safety issues from No. 3 tees. It is crying out to be a par-3 with the green moved closer to the shore and the slope in front softened... Either that or a new par 4 - up and over the hill. The short par-4 is completely forced because of the previous two short holes.

I think seven could be improved but maybe not by a whole lot. I quite liked it. It was like the 3rd at Carne but not quite as good.

I got a sense of deflation walking up 10 knowing that I was coming right back down 11 (which had a decent green site all the same). I think the club have had safety problems with No.10 and the access road and the position is perfect for a practice area.

No. 17 is only OK, I'll give you that. But it's long and asks for a good long iron at a critical time. Similar to No. 16 at Rosses Point.

Jack, I reckon you're right about No.5 fairway. It's an amazing piece of land.



Ally

I could see #4 being a par 3 with the same green complex.  I don't see any particular need to spend money on a new green over the hill and away from the 5th tee.  It would certainly be very different from the 2nd and 14th which is appealing.    

#10 is a bit dangerous with the road and folks blasting at that green, but in a way this is what makes it a decent hole!  Its a dangerous drive, but can reward the player who pulls it off.  Its the setting more than anything which detracts from the hole.  Stick it in the middle of the course and few would think it is boring.    

There is no question #5 is my favourite hole not only because of the humpty bumpty land which essentially causes havoc for the second especially if one is going for the green (I think many would call it unfair), but also because the tee shot is very interesting with all that space and how it uses the 17th fairway as well.  

Incidentally, on an otherwise terrible website I discovered that one can play Enniscrone, Rosses Point and Strandhill for 118 Euros!

Ciao

Hi Sean,

I'd only be placing a new green over the hill if there was potential to place 3 new holes up in the dunes culminating at the 5th tee (new 8th). Then by knocking out 9, 10 & 11 you can walk straight from 8 green to 12 tees... It's all just ideas but would seem much better money spent than the vast sum they just spent on the new (admittedly good) clubhouse... I think there has been a couple of cars hit from the tenth tee so they'll need to do something there.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ken Kearney on August 20, 2010, 10:41:24 AM
I tend to agree with Sean on this one... Strandhill is a club that seems to operate on small budgets and is none the less for it.... lessons to be learned !!! The club has investigated the options of moving into the dunes but as the area is SAC (Special Area of Conservation) a major planning struggle is inevitable...
While living in Sligo for c. 10 years I played lots of golf at Strandhill. It is a wonderful golfing experience snd they also have the friendliest pro shop in Ireland with Anthony and Cyril welcoming all with a genuine "Cead Mile Failte"....
The club is fortunate to have Jason Kelly, a young greenkeeper, full of passion and enthusiasm driving the course forward.
I have really fond memories of Stranhill and encourage all to expore her...

Ken.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on August 20, 2010, 12:02:24 PM
Hi Ken,

I'm usually the first to be wary of supposed development of our links courses but with Strandhill, the changes are just so obvious! And they would likely elevate the course in to the same ranks as its more esteemed neighbours.

But if its an SAC, then fair enough. Operating on small budgets is all well and good but they have just developed their clubhouse. Personally, I'd prefer to see money spent on the course (but I'd hate to see some of those greens altered because they are just so natural).

Anyway, I'm only pointing it out because I thought the course was so much fun. It should be a definite stop-off for those on here who are travelling to the North West.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Rory Connaughton on August 20, 2010, 01:52:19 PM
Ken, any relation to Niall the Walker Cupper?
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on August 20, 2010, 02:48:11 PM
Ken, any relation to Niall the Walker Cupper?

Rory,

This might fill you in:

http://www.roscommonpeople.ie/itemdetail.asp?itemID=2288

Unfortunate typo on Harry Colt though...
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Rory Connaughton on August 20, 2010, 03:20:25 PM
Ally

  Thanks for the link.  I thought there might be some connection with Niall Kearney's connection to Enniscrone.  In the piece Ken references New Forest.  Played there a few years ago and have been disappointed to hear that it is NLE or soon to be NLE. 
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Rory Connaughton on November 21, 2011, 08:58:35 AM
Terrific photos Brian. For all the time I have spent in Enniscrone, I have never managed to make it to Strandhill but I am obviously missing out.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Niall C on November 21, 2011, 01:11:31 PM
I played this course a number of years ago and really enjoyed it although in my vague memory I recall it being it a bit uneven but these photos suggest I might have been wrong. I do recall it was quite cramped and perhaps short but what the hell still looks a fun course. Probably second on the list to return to after Rosses Point.

Niall
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Jack_Marr on November 21, 2011, 02:06:51 PM
Strandhill is great fun. A very under-rated course.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Sean_A on November 22, 2011, 02:12:26 AM
Strandhill remains one of the biggest surprises for me.  I am not sure why I included it on an itinerary as nobody told me it was worth while.  In fact, I heard mostly negative things.  I am not sure what people expect for 30 Euros in high season, but to me Strandhill's handful of terrific holes is more than worth the effort to play.  One thing that remains irksome for me is the 7th.  That hole is very mediocre and it sits right on the water - such a shame.

Sheehy, thanks for the extra pix.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Mark_F on November 20, 2012, 02:09:55 PM
I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud.

Strandhill may lack a few things, but it is a fantastic course - I'm glad Brian, Sean and Ally said not to miss it.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on November 20, 2012, 02:21:23 PM
I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud.

Strandhill may lack a few things, but it is a fantastic course - I'm glad Brian, Sean and Ally said not to miss it.
Hi Mark... Glad you're here and glad you enjoyed Strandhill which I've been back to a couple of times since and it has grown on me each time... Look forward to seeing you in a couple of weeks... But look forward even more to the inevitable Enniscrone discussion / argument between Sean and yourself over the coming minutes / hours / days...
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Tom_Doak on November 20, 2012, 02:26:03 PM
I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud. 

I went out of the way to see Strandhill with one of my interns back a few years ago when this thread came up.  We didn't get to play because of a competition on the day, but I was underwhelmed from our walk around.  There were some interesting bits but the holes that played up over the side of the hill seemed pretty awkward.  Rosses Point may not have as good a set of greens but I would still choose it over Strandhill most any time [price not a factor in the Doak scale].  To each his own, I guess.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Niall C on November 20, 2012, 02:26:22 PM
Just looking back at this thread its as if the Strandhill in this thread is different to the one I played, and I'm not dissing the course because I really did enjoy it. I just don't remember it being as open as it appears with all the surrounding land. Having said that, its probably over 10 years since I played it.

Overall I wouldn't rate it in the same league or quality as Rosses Point although probably level in terms of fun. The one course on that trip I really thought was a wasted opportunity was Murvagh which I thought was distinctly average despite being on a site with huge potential.

Niall
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on November 20, 2012, 02:33:08 PM
In fairness I pretty much adore Rosses Point and Strandhill isn't in the same class... If Tom is talking about 12-15 at Strandhill, I'd agree they are not my favourite part of the course but they add some really quirky variety... The course has so many different elements to it, some bad, some good, some great, that it makes for an incredibly fun round...
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Sean_A on November 20, 2012, 02:43:07 PM
I am in Ally's camp.  Strandhill is hopeless in comparing favourably with Sligo purely on architectural merit.  Sligo's water holes alone make that point quite clearly.  The two courses are light years apart in quality, but not in fun.  Taking it all in, I slightly prefer Strandhill to Sligo because its cheap and contains enough quality to keep me happy.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Robert Thompson on November 20, 2012, 09:36:57 PM
I'm surprised anyone would call Enniscrone a "major dud." That requires further comment. I too saw Strandhill, Rosses Point and Enniscrone on the same trip. I thought Strandhill was quirky with a couple of wonderfully rumply fairways that resembled the surface of the moon.

However, all three in my party (which included two golf architects) thought Enniscrone was a significant surprise and really warrants more attention. Donald Steel's work was intriguing and the dunes are some of the best in the game. It does, however, have the worst logo in golf.


I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud.

Strandhill may lack a few things, but it is a fantastic course - I'm glad Brian, Sean and Ally said not to miss it.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Sean_A on November 21, 2012, 02:10:52 AM
I'm surprised anyone would call Enniscrone a "major dud." That requires further comment. I too saw Strandhill, Rosses Point and Enniscrone on the same trip. I thought Strandhill was quirky with a couple of wonderfully rumply fairways that resembled the surface of the moon.

However, all three in my party (which included two golf architects) thought Enniscrone was a significant surprise and really warrants more attention. Donald Steel's work was intriguing and the dunes are some of the best in the game. It does, however, have the worst logo in golf.


I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud.

Strandhill may lack a few things, but it is a fantastic course - I'm glad Brian, Sean and Ally said not to miss it.

I was going to give Mark a chance to come up with some reasons why Enniscrone is a dud.  Its clear he didn't play Sligo, maybe he didn't play Enniscrone either - tee hee.


Ciao 
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Mark_F on November 21, 2012, 03:37:18 AM
Mark - delighted you loved it! It's one of those course that is just different to anything else - and can't really be viewed in terms of its position in the rankings. I will say that I don't care if I ever see Rosses point again but I will make a special journey to go back to Strand Hill.

Enniscrone a dud??? What????? Elaborate please! How about Carne, did you play it?

Forget my late and brief response gentlemen, I am on a hotel computer with a dodgy keyboard.

Brian, I feel the same way you do about Rosses Point and Strandhill.  I was last one out at Rosses Point, so had a pretty good look around.  It does have a great routing, but is pretty bland otherwise.

Enniscrone
feels like a Greg Norman course - with a few exceptions, the holes are all perfectly adequate, but you come away feeling that they should all be better, and the three or four pretty good holes should be great holes.  The stretch from 5-11, with the exception of 8, is as dull as they come.  Three of the par fives are basically the same hole.


I played Carne twice - I liked it a little less the second time around, but it is a pretty good course. Some of the greens are pretty bland, but there are also more than a few with some good movement and slope.  I am amazed they have what they do there with the number of members they have and what they pay in subs.  Bottom line is that golf needs more courses and clubs like Carne than it does Trump Scotland or Castle Stuart.




I'm surprised anyone would call Enniscrone a "major dud." That requires further comment. I too saw Strandhill, Rosses Point and Enniscrone on the same trip. I thought Strandhill was quirky with a couple of wonderfully rumply fairways that resembled the surface of the moon.

However, all three in my party (which included two golf architects) thought Enniscrone was a significant surprise and really warrants more attention. Donald Steel's work was intriguing and the dunes are some of the best in the game. It does, however, have the worst logo in golf.


I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud.

Strandhill may lack a few things, but it is a fantastic course - I'm glad Brian, Sean and Ally said not to miss it.

I was going to give Mark a chance to come up with some reasons why Enniscrone is a dud.  Its clear he didn't play Sligo, maybe he didn't play Enniscrone either - tee hee.


Ciao 

I know you are a big fan of Enniscrone Sean - I look forward to a hearty discussion in a couple of weeks.  And yes, I did play Enniscrone - twice :)

Tom - maybe you should actually play these courses instead of just walking them. :)

Ally - I look forward to meeting you next week.  May the good weather hold...









Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Sean_A on November 21, 2012, 05:31:24 AM
Mark

You didn't like 5?????  BUT, you liked the very staid drop shot 8th?  Heavy sigh.

I also like the 7th a load. 

The one hole I wish Steel messed with is #9.  That should be a better hole using the water in a much more aggressive manner.   

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Robert Thompson on November 21, 2012, 11:41:36 AM
You lose me in comparing Enniscrone to a "Greg Norman course."

Yes, there is a lull towards the end of the front nine, but I found the back nine to be exceptional, especially once it hits the stretch along the beach, but the 12th and 13th were terrific as well.

I really liked Carne as well, but I probably have more affection for Enniscrone.

Mark - delighted you loved it! It's one of those course that is just different to anything else - and can't really be viewed in terms of its position in the rankings. I will say that I don't care if I ever see Rosses point again but I will make a special journey to go back to Strand Hill.

Enniscrone a dud??? What????? Elaborate please! How about Carne, did you play it?

Forget my late and brief response gentlemen, I am on a hotel computer with a dodgy keyboard.

Brian, I feel the same way you do about Rosses Point and Strandhill.  I was last one out at Rosses Point, so had a pretty good look around.  It does have a great routing, but is pretty bland otherwise.

Enniscrone
feels like a Greg Norman course - with a few exceptions, the holes are all perfectly adequate, but you come away feeling that they should all be better, and the three or four pretty good holes should be great holes.  The stretch from 5-11, with the exception of 8, is as dull as they come.  Three of the par fives are basically the same hole.


I played Carne twice - I liked it a little less the second time around, but it is a pretty good course. Some of the greens are pretty bland, but there are also more than a few with some good movement and slope.  I am amazed they have what they do there with the number of members they have and what they pay in subs.  Bottom line is that golf needs more courses and clubs like Carne than it does Trump Scotland or Castle Stuart.




I'm surprised anyone would call Enniscrone a "major dud." That requires further comment. I too saw Strandhill, Rosses Point and Enniscrone on the same trip. I thought Strandhill was quirky with a couple of wonderfully rumply fairways that resembled the surface of the moon.

However, all three in my party (which included two golf architects) thought Enniscrone was a significant surprise and really warrants more attention. Donald Steel's work was intriguing and the dunes are some of the best in the game. It does, however, have the worst logo in golf.


I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud.

Strandhill may lack a few things, but it is a fantastic course - I'm glad Brian, Sean and Ally said not to miss it.

I was going to give Mark a chance to come up with some reasons why Enniscrone is a dud.  Its clear he didn't play Sligo, maybe he didn't play Enniscrone either - tee hee.


Ciao 

I know you are a big fan of Enniscrone Sean - I look forward to a hearty discussion in a couple of weeks.  And yes, I did play Enniscrone - twice :)

Tom - maybe you should actually play these courses instead of just walking them. :)

Ally - I look forward to meeting you next week.  May the good weather hold...










Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on September 12, 2016, 07:46:57 AM
10 of us played Strandhill after Buda and we all seemed to have good words to say about it even though most played the back-9 in the rain and behind a 4-ball of slowcoaches.


Very fine conditioning, a really spectacular location, surprisingly undulating/hilly terrain, with many a fine hole. Wonderful moguls on the 5th. Not so keen on the 13th with it's tiny green and the severely uphill 15th with it's top-hat green and the 16th with it's huge double level green seemed a bit bland but with more plays these holes might grow on me.


It was nice to see Ally's re-bunkering and have the opportunity to see and envisage what he would like to do behind the current 4th green and before the current ladies 5th tee.


I would very much like to play Strandhill again and would urge others to visit and play it.


Atb
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Niall C on September 12, 2016, 08:20:33 AM
Dai


Thanks for bumping this old thread. Interesting to read the comments on Carne and in particular Enniscrone. One thing I certainly agree with Robert is that Enniscrone has a shockingly bad logo. I was all geared up to maybe buying a nice souvenir in the pro shop but couldn't bring myself to do it other than the usual ball marker strokesaver. Really friendly staff though.


Where I disagree with Robert is the quality of the new holes along the water. With the exception of the par 3 17th, which most of us found to be an incredibly difficult green to hit and hold, I thought the water holes were a missed opportunity. Bizzarely a lot of the new holes had the greens not only hidden round a corner but were nearly all raised. Admittedly they had some very nice internal contours but what they require is to be re-orientated in direction and moved 20 or 30 yards sideways. Apart from that they are OK  ;D

Niall
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Mark Pearce on September 12, 2016, 08:51:42 AM
ATB,


I was fortunate enough to be in the first group at Strandhill, who were let through by the group you describe as slowcoaches.  They were, quite possibly, the slowest, most annoying group of golfers I have ever encountered.  According to the barman, they had teed off 1 hour and 20 minutes before we did.  We saw no sign of golfers ahead of us at any point until we reached the 7th green.  Since yo can see that green from the tee, that means they had finished the 7th hole before we teed off.  When we reached the 7th green they were on the 8th tee.  Quite extraordinary.  When we walked off the 8th green, they were still teeing off on the 9th. 


I liked Strandhill a lot but the 13th is simply a bad hole and the 15th is borderline.  I heard that the intention was to take the par 3 9th out of play, which I think would be a shame.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on September 12, 2016, 10:39:34 AM
13 may be a bad hole, though I vehemently disagree, but it is a hole with distinction and therefore is essential to the design just as the Dell is to Lahinch. 


I don't see anything wrong with 15.  In fact, there is very little to find fault with the course and if I had to pick one hole it would be the dull 7th occupying the prime spot on the course...what a shame...hopefully Ally has this as his #1 problem on the drawing board...though I think he wants to cope with the holes along the road first.  I will be sorry to see these holes changed as they are both good.  Bloody do gooders with their health & safety nonsense are screwing up the world. 


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on September 12, 2016, 12:01:03 PM
Mark,


They really were slow weren't they! Our first group were only let through because the 'slowcoaches' lost a ball. I'm struggling to recall a more inconsiderate group, especially given the weather.


Sean,


The playing lines on the 13th and 15th weren't very clear. Perhaps some barber poles, as other holes on the course had, or even white stones on the dunes, might be helpful.


As to the 13th, the tiny green was soo small and in such a dark area that discussions about keeping it in good condition, it was the worst we played on the course, and pin positioning took place....but then again, it's been there quite a while now!


Wonderful clubhouse location at Strandhill. You could see just about the whole course from it's windows and surrounds. And a whole bunch of wonderful scenery as well.


Atb
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Mark Pearce on September 12, 2016, 12:30:26 PM
The difficulty with putting up indicators of line on the 13th is that the right line will depend on how far you're going to hit the ball.  When we played James and I both hit driver and should probably have aimed 30 yards right of where we did.  From where our balls ended up neither of us really had a shot, despite hitting it straight down the middle, or so it seemed.  On the line we went for, 5 iron might have been the right club.  The bigger problem, as you identify, is the size of the green and its surrounds.  It was in awful condition and I can't imagine that improving in such a confined space with such high dunes surrounding it.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on September 12, 2016, 12:46:27 PM
I agree with Sean. After all we weren't playing Dunfanaghy.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on September 12, 2016, 01:06:16 PM
Perhaps teh club has fallen on hard times?  When I was there the green was fine. 


I agree, from the tee it is hard to know where to go and most will go too far left.  Of course, the next time everybody knows better.  The hole is far too cool and original to even suggest personal issues should see it altered.


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Mark Pearce on September 12, 2016, 01:19:30 PM
It certainly didn't feel as if the club was stuck for cash!  The other 17 greens were all fine, so I assume (perhaps wrongly) that the confined nature of 13 green had led to its poor state.  I've certainly never seen another hole like it.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on September 12, 2016, 01:23:03 PM
I agree with Sean. After all we weren't playing Dunfanaghy.


Garland,


What did you make of Dunfanaghy?


Here's Donal's Dunfanaghy photo-tour from awhile back - http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,49256.0.html


Atb
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on September 12, 2016, 01:44:56 PM
A few answers / clarifications:

There is no intent to materially alter the 13th. All we're going to do is fill in the bunker marooned right of the fairway and put a hybrid style blow out more in the line of play in to the dune just beside. Although I would in time like to remove the ramped exit path to the right of the green. This in turn would enlarge the green ever so slightly whilst making the site look much better / more natural.

I tend to agree with Sean that it's an individual hole so why change it.

Sean - no intention to remove holes 10 & 11 by the road. We've just completely rebunkered them to add in a few strategic choices, particularly on 11. We may (and this is yet to be decided and dependent on new holes going ahead) extend the 11th through to the existing 9th green site. 9 will go in entirety. For all intents and purposes, so will 4.

As for the 7th, we are tackling that next month but it is not a re-routing. The bones of the hole is excellent. We are just rebunkering it, probably shrinking the green very slightly in the process. Also new mowing lines.

Thomas, the 16th may appear blandish but with the second most rumpled fairway (after the 5th) and with the bay backing the green, it has big potential. So we are widening the fairway, pushing it left and putting a very small, cheeky centreline bunker in the middle right of the fairway with a new trench bunker front left of the green. Safe way off the tee will make it play more of a gentle dogleg to the right.

Mark - they don't have plenty of money. Current methodology is the club fundraises for 6 months just to pay us for 2 weeks work. Then start again and repeat process.

Ally
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on September 12, 2016, 01:55:17 PM
Ally,
Thanks for the clarifications. I like the sound of the envisaged changes to the 16th....perhaps my 'bland' thoughts were influenced by the heavy drizzle!......and the pathway mod to the 13th sounds good as well.
I look forward to returning sometime and seeing how things have gone.
Atb
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 07, 2016, 04:04:32 PM
Now that I am back home, I can comment a little further on Strandhill, especially the 13th and 15th.
It seems to me that 13 requires thinking and judgement to determine what you can get out of the hole given each individual circumstance. In that sense, it is quite a good hole. 15 can be difficult if all you have in your bag are straight shots or shots turning right. However, turning the ball left with control would give the player an advantage on the hole. Both holes can be a bit of a problem on the first or next few plays, but I think they would become holes the knowledgeable player would look forward to each round.


I also note that Finnegan calls out both as interesting holes at the course in his golf travel books.


And, a member of my club that used to work with a company with a branch in Sligo thinks they are the most memorable and enjoyable holes on the course.



Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 10, 2016, 05:21:26 AM
Garland


It doesn't much matter if folks like or dislike 13...its a hole that is far too interesting and unusual to debate its merits or faults.  The hole is a definite keeper full stop. 


I have no idea what the fuss is concerning 15.   It reminds me a ton of Cruden Bay's 7th.


I am very surprised there were no comments concerning 14.


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 11, 2016, 12:32:59 PM
Garland


It doesn't much matter if folks like or dislike 13...its a hole that is far too interesting and unusual to debate its merits or faults.  The hole is a definite keeper full stop. 


I have no idea what the fuss is concerning 15.   It reminds me a ton of Cruden Bay's 7th.


I am very surprised there were no comments concerning 14.


Ciao


14? Narrow green like Bandon Trails 14 that is hard to hit and hold? No controversy there, I'm sure. ;D

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 14, 2016, 05:27:46 PM
I'm just back from a quick tour of the North-West which included Rosses Point, Murvagh, Enniscrone, Carne and my first visit to Strandhill.

I won't comment on the others as they are better known but I think Strandhill should be a must stop for anyone in the area. As it stands, it is the weakest of the five although if they got rid of 9, 10 & 11 and built in to the dunes at the back (which they own), that could definitely change. However, even without that, it is fun, fun, fun with some pretty great green complexes that are cut on existing contours at grade level and some flatter plateau greens (less admirable) that are more than likely the work of Eddie Hackett by the look of them.

I think Sean is more in to big dunes than I am. I enjoyed the front nine most with 4 being the only weak hole and 3 and 9 being merely OK. The rest were all good to excellent and No.5 is all world in my mind with a high angled tee shot to the most rumpled fairway I have seen anywhere and a semi-blind approach (flag-stick only) to an excellent green. 10 & 11 are average (playing up and down) and would make a perfect spot for a driving range. 12 plays up and left to a skyline green and is pretty good. I've yet to make my mind up on 13 which is definite quirk to the smallest green I have seen (guess under 200m2) placed between two dunes (reminiscent of The Dell at Lahinch but with some visibility). Quite liked the par-3 14th but also unsure of the big dune 15th which plays to one of those flat elevated Hackett plateaus. 16, 17 and 18 are all pretty good holes in my book.

To be honest with you, I think Strandhill could be an absolute cracker with a little budget and previous mentioned moderations behind it. The ground game is alive and well there, that's for sure.


Perhaps Ally can edit the picture and show us what mods he is thinking of.


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4232/35571495102_fce7f728b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WckdcG)BingRouting_zpssfnr1qf0 (https://flic.kr/p/WckdcG) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr


Here is the unique #13. The dunes beside the entrance are quite high (perhaps 20 feet guessing from memory).


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4284/35700263996_6482ddae3a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WoHbH3)Strandhill13_zpsbelyphfs (https://flic.kr/p/WoHbH3) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 14, 2016, 05:34:20 PM


Ally

Its a neat little course eh?  I enjoyed it immensely despite some lame holes and a few which should be far better (7 & 8 especially).  I like the 1st, 2nd, 5th, 6th 8th, 14th and 18th best so I am surprised you say I like the bigger dunes - I don't tend to unless tempered with flatter holes as a counterbalance.  The hole which really intrigues me is #8.  If they would just cut down some rough for this blind shot I think it could be an all-world short par 4.  On the other side of the coin, #7, on the prime land was dead boring.

I don't think the course needs to use the huge dunes, just work on what already exists and make sure they are getting the best out of the land. 

Ciao


I should note that I didn't find #7 dead boring. With all the movement in the ground there is always significant interest for me.


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4037/35700437596_1904bcb475_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WoJ5j9)20160906_083117Strandhill_zps3bmvrw4f (https://flic.kr/p/WoJ5j9) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 14, 2016, 06:44:35 PM
Garland,

I'm away from my hard drive for the next week but will throw up a diagram when I return.

As it happens, we are back down doing two weeks work at the end of October and that will include rebunkering the 7th, 13th and 14th holes.

Regards the 7th from your photo below, I never really understood why Sean didn't like it but it does need a little definition and strategy. So we're reconfiguring the fairway line slightly, adding a fairway bunker on the right, an approach bunker on the left and removing the two green-side bunkers on the right to replace with one that eats in to the huge green a little more. Green-side bunker front left will remain.

Since I posted my comments in 2010, I've become rather fond of the 10th hole which has some great ground movement.

Ally
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 14, 2016, 07:07:19 PM
There is zero strategy to #7...straight with no emphasis for hitting it anywhere.  Thats only part of the problem...the hole occupies THE PRIME SPOT ON THE PROPERTY and it is a totally forgettable hole.  Its unforgivable that given the location and terrain, this is the hole that was designed...its crackers....very amateurish.

To me 10 is much the better hole because of the temptation with a severe penalty lurking left.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 14, 2016, 07:31:12 PM
When I look at the aerial view of the course, I see the club has limited resources as they are lengthening holes by moving tees back. It appears to me that one way to enhance the 7th, could be to lengthen the 6th by moving the green closer to the sea, and moving the 7th tee similarly. But it costs more to move greens. Also, having visited once my suggestion may not be valid if there is no suitable green site for the 6th to move to.


Hopefully Ally's rebunkering the 7th will remove some of Sean's boredom. ;)

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 14, 2016, 07:40:05 PM
Garland


It doesn't much matter if folks like or dislike 13...its a hole that is far too interesting and unusual to debate its merits or faults.  The hole is a definite keeper full stop. 


I have no idea what the fuss is concerning 15.   It reminds me a ton of Cruden Bay's 7th.


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4133/34931040733_2fc75fbc55_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/VdJHqZ)Strandhill15_zpsjcduraqd (https://flic.kr/p/VdJHqZ) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr


Quote
I am very surprised there were no comments concerning 14.


Ciao

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4232/34899195704_21c6e62af1_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/VaVv1L)Strandhill14_zpsqgn8phlz (https://flic.kr/p/VaVv1L) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr

Anyone care to comment? Pretty narrow green makes it hard for directionally challenged golfers like me to hit.


What's future bunkering planned for 14 Ally?
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 14, 2016, 07:48:05 PM
Garland,

Thank you for acknowledging that you only visited once. Ulrich had redesigned the 27 holes at Carne on the strength of a wet weekend.

In principle (by master plan) your idea is a sound one. But there are a few reasons why it doesn't quite work:

Firstly, the topography doesn't allow for the sixth hole extension you suggest and anyway, the current sixth green site is a cracker. The proposed tee site for 7 is being eaten away by erosion at an alarming rate as well and on top of that, you cannot hold grass up there because of sand blow from Shelley Valley behind. Finally, I don't believe it would improve the 7th, taking the visibility of the green site away from the tee.

As always, every decision when designing is balancing the most positives against the least negatives.

I did actually look at moving the 6th green left which would give a beautiful hole from the tee. Then placing a really cool par-3 teeing from the right of current 6 green across the hollow to a green backed by the Atlantic. Following with the 7th from where you suggest. The idea there was to buy space around 2, 3 and 4 where there are big internal safety and speed of play issues. But despite it working really well on paper, the sand blow and erosion make it too risky an option.

Sean - you are far too hard on 7. Throw out an idea. I've still got time to implement it.

Ally
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 15, 2016, 03:19:40 AM
Ally


Obviously you aren't satisfied with #7 or it wouldn't be targeted for work. I assume the tee nor green can be moved closer to the water otherwise the hole is a serious head sctatcher.  I would attempt to use the terrain at an angle so balls can be shoved either way that makes sense from the position of the tee, then angle the green which welcomes the correct line and perhaps make the green a bit smaller.  The hole now doesn't have any angle merits to take advantage of the terrain...the hole is okay despite the architecture...and the green is not stellar. As I say, the hole should be special, now its just okay and that isn't anywhere near good enough for the prime location on the course.   


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 15, 2016, 05:50:51 AM
1st etc - like the new bunkering although never saw the old
4th-5th - look forward to hearing/seeing how things progress

7th - like the sound of Ally's ideas.
8th and 9th - could they be joined together, ie play 8th tee to 9th green and add yet another additional new hole behind the current 4th?
13th - add some simple aiming aids, eg white stones on the dunes maybe? Envisaged bunker and green/path mods noted. Green is tiny but it's been there a long time. Something tells me this is very, very nearly a great hole but some piece in the holes jigsaw is missing. Not sure what though!
14th - seemed a nice hole as is
15th - hole doesn't balance for me...lay-up off the tee and then a maybe even longer very uphill shot to the volcano green. Would it be possible for the mowing lines down the left side to be adjusted so longer left side tee shots are possible for all rather than just the longer hitters who can fly the corner rough/mounds?
16th - Ally's thoughts sound good.
17th - nice new bunkering on the left
18th - needs a wee tweek, not sure quite what, something visual, maybe to do with the maintenance buildings.


These are thoughts based on the comments made above and on only one play. Those who've played Strandhill more or are members may well think differently, which is fine...on further plays my thoughts would probably change.


Strandhill is a pretty fine course even as it is. Lots for archie fans to look at plus sensational scenery for those who are maybe more keen on that aspect of the game. A course that should be better known. Hopefully it will be.
 
Look forward to returning some day.


Atb
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 15, 2016, 09:58:49 AM
Hi Sean,

Yes - On 7, neither the tee nor the green can be moved nearer the sea for practical reasons. But in the case of the tee, a couple of golfing reasons too (longer walk from 6th green, reduced visibility). You are right in saying I think the hole can be improved. But we are redoing the bunker scheme on the whole course so it's just one of eighteen that will change. We are however intending to bring angles in to the strategy of the hole so you should certainly notice an improvement that way.

Garland, 14 is pretty skinny for sure. We'll give a tiny bit more room by taking off an intrusive dune nose on the right and by filling in the left bunker and replacing with a short grass run-off. We also intend to fill in the front bunker and replace it with one pushed in to the dune on the right.

Mr.Thomas, there is a considerable dearth of room around 8 green, 12 tee, 11 green and hole 9 so absolutely no way to combine 8 and 9 even if we wanted to.

There is also no further room to build another hole behind 4 green without descending in to the dune slack. There you have 60 acres to play with but will never receive planning. In addition, I commented that to go down there, you'd need to build minimum 4 extra holes so the transition felt worthwhile and not disconnected from the rest of the course.

Ally
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 15, 2016, 05:54:00 PM
Ally,


Thanks for this. I am now suitably chastised and enlightened!


Atb
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 15, 2016, 07:44:53 PM
I hope I didn't appear to be chastising you.... I must change my tone.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 16, 2016, 05:43:40 AM
Hi Sean,

Yes - On 7, neither the tee nor the green can be moved nearer the sea for practical reasons. But in the case of the tee, a couple of golfing reasons too (longer walk from 6th green, reduced visibility). You are right in saying I think the hole can be improved. But we are redoing the bunker scheme on the whole course so it's just one of eighteen that will change. We are however intending to bring angles in to the strategy of the hole so you should certainly notice an improvement that way.

Garland, 14 is pretty skinny for sure. We'll give a tiny bit more room by taking off an intrusive dune nose on the right and by filling in the left bunker and replacing with a short grass run-off. We also intend to fill in the front bunker and replace it with one pushed in to the dune on the right.

Mr.Thomas, there is a considerable dearth of room around 8 green, 12 tee, 11 green and hole 9 so absolutely no way to combine 8 and 9 even if we wanted to.

There is also no further room to build another hole behind 4 green without descending in to the dune slack. There you have 60 acres to play with but will never receive planning. In addition, I commented that to go down there, you'd need to build minimum 4 extra holes so the transition felt worthwhile and not disconnected from the rest of the course.

Ally


Ally


I am sure improvements can be made to many holes, its just that I had pegged as one of the holes in dire need of attention...same for 8...that can be a great hole with some help.


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 17, 2016, 04:40:22 PM
Hi Sean,

Yes - On 7, neither the tee nor the green can be moved nearer the sea for practical reasons. But in the case of the tee, a couple of golfing reasons too (longer walk from 6th green, reduced visibility). You are right in saying I think the hole can be improved. But we are redoing the bunker scheme on the whole course so it's just one of eighteen that will change. We are however intending to bring angles in to the strategy of the hole so you should certainly notice an improvement that way.

Garland, 14 is pretty skinny for sure. We'll give a tiny bit more room by taking off an intrusive dune nose on the right and by filling in the left bunker and replacing with a short grass run-off. We also intend to fill in the front bunker and replace it with one pushed in to the dune on the right.

Mr.Thomas, there is a considerable dearth of room around 8 green, 12 tee, 11 green and hole 9 so absolutely no way to combine 8 and 9 even if we wanted to.

There is also no further room to build another hole behind 4 green without descending in to the dune slack. There you have 60 acres to play with but will never receive planning. In addition, I commented that to go down there, you'd need to build minimum 4 extra holes so the transition felt worthwhile and not disconnected from the rest of the course.

Ally


Ally


I am sure improvements can be made to many holes, its just that I had pegged as one of the holes in dire need of attention...same for 8...that can be a great hole with some help.


Ciao

We've already reworked the 8th green complex, Sean. Removed front bunker, removed left bunker and shaped as grass hollow. Removed two bunkers on right, replaced with one more visible, closer to the green. And reshaped the area so that balls feed in and the green flows more naturally to the bunker (false edge on green pad before).

I've left it open whether we will do work further back in landing zone. The tee will definitely be reshaped in time.

You had thoughts on this hole, didn't you? Remind me.

Ally
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: JJShanley on October 19, 2016, 10:31:03 AM
I recall sitting in the clubhouse over lunch in June 2012 thinking that 6 would be a great opening hole, and 5 a super closer.  Thoughts?
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 19, 2016, 12:13:57 PM
I recall sitting in the clubhouse over lunch in June 2012 thinking that 6 would be a great opening hole, and 5 a super closer.  Thoughts?


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4132/35740651285_9106b0d997_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WshbrB)Strandhill05_zps1tun0j2q (https://flic.kr/p/WshbrB) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4232/35740639635_c8c2abffde_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Wsh7YK)Strandhill06_zpsghmbjiux (https://flic.kr/p/Wsh7YK) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr


I liked the current opener, and I would like to have experienced/seen the closer in better weather than blinding wind and rain.

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 19, 2016, 03:49:30 PM
I recall sitting in the clubhouse over lunch in June 2012 thinking that 6 would be a great opening hole, and 5 a super closer.  Thoughts?

If the new holes receive planning, 6 would become the new opening hole.

18 would remain as the finisher however.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 24, 2016, 01:47:07 PM
I played this course yesterday, and Rosses Point today.

I would agree with Sean on a couple of things - 9 and 17 are fairly bland holes, but I thought 7,9 and 16 were fine holes.

It is also MILES in front of both Rosses Point, which has perhaps the most boring set of greens I have ever encountered, and Enniscrone, which was a major dud. 

I went out of the way to see Strandhill with one of my interns back a few years ago when this thread came up.  We didn't get to play because of a competition on the day, but I was underwhelmed from our walk around.  There were some interesting bits but the holes that played up over the side of the hill seemed pretty awkward.  Rosses Point may not have as good a set of greens but I would still choose it over Strandhill most any time [price not a factor in the Doak scale].  To each his own, I guess.


I have to agree with Mark on this. I played all three, and find his assessment to be dead on. I really found Rosses Point to be somewhat easy and somewhat boring compared to the barrel of fun at Strandhill.

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on November 04, 2016, 09:09:11 AM
Just back from a couple of weeks at Strandhill where we redid the bunker scheme on another 5 holes.

This time round, we were working on 7, 13, 14, 15 and 16.

Very happy with the results. 10 holes done now.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on December 07, 2016, 04:48:47 PM

Perhaps Ally can edit the picture and show us what mods he is thinking of.


(http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j282/bokuhan_hagaromo/Strandhill/BingRouting_zpssfnr1qf0.png) (http://s83.photobucket.com/user/bokuhan_hagaromo/media/Strandhill/BingRouting_zpssfnr1qf0.png.html)




I just did a quick sketch, Garland... It's t'other way round to the above plan you did...


(http://i1276.photobucket.com/albums/y468/mcintoshgolf/P1040166_zpssbvhnjtx.jpg) (http://s1276.photobucket.com/user/mcintoshgolf/media/P1040166_zpssbvhnjtx.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on February 02, 2017, 07:32:21 PM
I am in Ally's camp.  Strandhill is hopeless in comparing favourably with Sligo purely on architectural merit.  Sligo's water holes alone make that point quite clearly.  The two courses are light years apart in quality, but not in fun.  Taking it all in, I slightly prefer Strandhill to Sligo because its cheap and contains enough quality to keep me happy.

Ciao


I am curious about what Sean means by water holes. I assume he means the holes having the stream, as opposed to the holes nearest the sea, as those holes don't really have water in play. As I recall the stream was used to good effect to influence strategy, or perhaps dictate tactics when your strategy is failing. In all likely hood a stream won't be moved, whereas any course can add or move bunkers to gain the same strategic influence. Here's hoping that Ally continues to enhance Strandhill so that the strategic nature equals or exceeds Rosses Point.


My experience here is that I played both in the same day, and had essentially equal games for both plays. I found Rosses Point to be easy and uninspiring, and Strandhill to be more difficult and more inspiring.


Rosses Point was so easy that I took second in the individual Stableford, but my team was easily defeated in the team Stableford at Strandhill. ;)


When it comes to fun, Strandhill beats Rosses Point hands down. If your course rating system doesn't include fun for the average golfer, then perhaps you should reconsider your course rating system.

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: Strandhill
Post by: Garland Bayley on March 16, 2018, 09:20:08 PM

Perhaps Ally can edit the picture and show us what mods he is thinking of.


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4232/35571495102_fce7f728b0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WckdcG)BingRouting_zpssfnr1qf0 (https://flic.kr/p/WckdcG) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr




I just did a quick sketch, Garland... It's t'other way round to the above plan you did...


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4011/35571509542_3ab06de7d3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/WckhuE)AllysRouting_zpsvs4udecw (https://flic.kr/p/WckhuE) by Garland Bayley (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148318336@N03/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on March 20, 2018, 03:22:16 PM
Ally

Is the work finished?

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on March 20, 2018, 03:56:26 PM
Ally


Is the work finished?


Ciao


Sean,


Not by a long shot.


We have redesigned and built the bunkering on 15 out of the 18 holes. The other three will be done when we build the two and two half new holes, which we are shooting for Q1 2019 followed by some work at the end of that year. We’ve also redone the 6th and 16th tees and changed the fairway mowing lines as well as other little tweaks.


The work will be essentially complete for a semi-official opening in early 2020.


However, all going well, we will be doing small bits of work for sometime after that, especially tee work.


Ally
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on March 20, 2018, 04:01:46 PM
Ally


Is the work finished?


Ciao


Sean,


Not by a long shot.


We have redesigned and built the bunkering on 15 out of the 18 holes. The other three will be done when we build the two and two half new holes, which we are shooting for Q1 2019 followed by some work at the end of that year. We’ve also redone the 6th and 16th tees and changed the fairway mowing lines as well as other little tweaks.


The work will be essentially complete for a semi-official opening in early 2020.


However, all going well, we will be doing small bits of work for sometime after that, especially tee work.


Ally


Ally


So the "old" routing is still in place?


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on March 20, 2018, 04:23:50 PM
Yes it’s still in place Sean. Would expect it to change somewhere between late 2019 and summer 2020 all things going to plan.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 13, 2022, 03:28:46 AM
Ally, what's the story?

I see the club has thrown all their chips in and want 150 Euro for international golfers next year. 😕

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 13, 2022, 04:29:33 AM
Yes, I just got told that 2 days ago. No comment.


Have been on site for the last week doing the first tee-complex. Has proven to be a difficult job with far more clay and utilities to deal with than we initially suspected.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 13, 2022, 11:11:44 AM
Strandhill is the never ending job!

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 13, 2022, 01:23:49 PM
They only budget for a few weeks work a year. They didn’t work during Covid. That is reality for many clubs…. It’s not all multi-millionaire developers, don’t you know?!


That said, I hope we now have a clear path to completion. But it will be 2-3 years until all done.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ben Stephens on October 13, 2022, 02:51:52 PM
Ally, what's the story?

I see the club has thrown all their chips in and want 150 Euro for international golfers next year. 😕

Ciao


Eek - isn't that a bit unfair and off putting. In England we don't have that sort of thing unless its EGU rates at Woodhall Spa.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Niall C on October 13, 2022, 03:35:11 PM
We have that in Scotland. Mind you it was US led developers who I think introduced it at Kingsbarns and Castle Stuart, and now they have it at Dumbarnie.


Niall
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on October 13, 2022, 03:43:06 PM
Almost every course in Ireland has a rack-rate and then a GUI rate. Most golfers - international included - should be able to negotiate themselves down from the rack rate at all but the very elite clubs.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Jim Sherma on October 13, 2022, 03:45:38 PM
Wow, 150 for Strandhill is crazy money. I loved the two days I spent there and felt that the course was wonderful. Of the four courses I played along that stretch I had Sligo as a clear favorite with Strandhill and Carne similarly placed and both above Enniscrone. I just felt that the Steele holes in the big dunes were very one dimensional from a golf perspective even if they were visually very nice. I thought the Hackett holes on the flatter land below the dunes left room for much better golf.


On my second day at Strandhill and after playing in the morning we went back in the afternoon after the sun came out and the wind died down. The two of us were waved out by the shop with no additional charge onto an empty course and completed one of my favorite days on all of my golf trips. You need to wonder where this upward price spiral will end for both the consumer as well as the clubs.


Sadly it seems like another part of the world where my willingness to spend is no longer viable. 
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 13, 2022, 04:22:41 PM
Jim

Willingness is the right word. Stick Strandhill in the US and folks would rave about a $150 green fee. Still, it's hard to stomach when you know it was 30 Euros ten years ago. That's Ireland all over though. Gouge the overseas market for all its worth...a very unappealing approach which leads to tour bus visitors and eventually spoils the experience. I won't go back at that price. They can take the piss out of someone else. My recent trip to Ireland was the first golf trip there in some time and now I remember why.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Dan_Callahan on October 13, 2022, 04:42:29 PM
Jim
Gouge the overseas market for all its worth...a very unappealing approach which leads to tour bus visitors and eventually spoils the experience. I won't go back at that price. They can take the piss out of someone else.


This is really what it comes down to for me. I had to bite my tongue when listening to an admittedly younger Irish golfer go on and on about the Irish courses the "tourist Yanks" had ruined. While I get the point, and I head to the northwest for the exact reason that there are fewer Americans (and less people in general) than down south, I didn't love the vitriol when it's those very same "Yanks" who are getting gouged so he can pay less.


I try to rationalize the difference in fee by equating it to munis in the US, where if you live in the town, or sometimes the state, you pay a lower rate than outsiders. But with the prices going where they are going, it's getting harder and harder to feel good about it. The hidden gems aren't so hidden anymore. Which makes it all the more satisfying when you find a place like Bretwood in NH, which is just about as enjoyable a public course as there is in New England and it's only $42 walking.
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 13, 2022, 05:20:28 PM
Jim
Gouge the overseas market for all its worth...a very unappealing approach which leads to tour bus visitors and eventually spoils the experience. I won't go back at that price. They can take the piss out of someone else.


This is really what it comes down to for me. I had to bite my tongue when listening to an admittedly younger Irish golfer go on and on about the Irish courses the "tourist Yanks" had ruined. While I get the point, and I head to the northwest for the exact reason that there are fewer Americans (and less people in general) than down south, I didn't love the vitriol when it's those very same "Yanks" who are getting gouged so he can pay less.


I try to rationalize the difference in fee by equating it to munis in the US, where if you live in the town, or sometimes the state, you pay a lower rate than outsiders. But with the prices going where they are going, it's getting harder and harder to feel good about it. The hidden gems aren't so hidden anymore. Which makes it all the more satisfying when you find a place like Bretwood in NH, which is just about as enjoyable a public course as there is in New England and it's only $42 walking.

The price gouging is rampant throughout GB&I. To me the difference is in England and Wales, the club culture remains for most of the big guns. It doesn't feel like tour bus golf. Its a complete sell out in Ireland and they celebrate it. I can't wrap my head around this approach, but I guess I am in the minority. Thankfully Donegal hasn't gone ape shit yet, but I don't hold out much hope.

Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 13, 2022, 05:27:01 PM
It isn’t just “tourist yanks” who are being fleeced in Ireland. It’s anyone who isn’t a member of a club in Ireland affiliated to the Golf Union of Ireland. It’s being within the GUI that might get you the reduction.
Similarly in England there can be, not always, but can be, reduced ‘County Card’ rates if you’re a member of an English club. Same in Wales for Welsh clubs and presumably the same in Scotland for Scottish club members. But if you’re a member of a club in England or Wales or Scotland don’t expect a reduced fee in Ireland nor if you’re a member of an Irish club expect a reduced fee in Eng/Wal/Scot. And Eng/Wal/Scot club members should only expect to be able to gain a reduced fee in their own ‘country’.
But as the saying goes “to every action there’s an equal and opposite reaction” so let’s see what the reaction to golf prices will be in Ireland and other places as well over the next couple of years. Crystal ball time perhaps?
And as a related aside, it’s worth bearing in mind that as course conditioning expectations increase so does the cost of maintenance and upkeep and thus cost to play.

Atb


Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Niall C on October 14, 2022, 07:34:52 AM
I didn't love the vitriol when it's those very same "Yanks" who are getting gouged so he can pay less.


Dan


I totally disagree with your premis that US visitors are being asked to pay more so that Irish visitors can pay less. I don't believe that's the case at all. What I think happened is that some smart marketing type realised that firstly US visitors are generally willing to pay a lot more than local visitors and therefore they created a two tier market so they could set the highest price point for both.


Arguably, and its an argument I tend to agree with, the local price wouldn't be set so high if it wasn't for the amount taken in from overseas visitors. Whether those overseas visitors (mainly US I'd imagine) should be blamed for that is another question but personally I don't think so. But all the same it has had a significant effect on this side of the pond.


Golf is now much more expensive for local golfers. Their own membership subs maybe haven't increased dramatically but an awful lot of club members play rounds at other courses as visitors and therefore have seen a dramatic rise in the cost of their "away days" in recent years.


Niall
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Sean_A on October 14, 2022, 08:44:08 AM
I didn't love the vitriol when it's those very same "Yanks" who are getting gouged so he can pay less.


Dan


I totally disagree with your premis that US visitors are being asked to pay more so that Irish visitors can pay less. I don't believe that's the case at all. What I think happened is that some smart marketing type realised that firstly US visitors are generally willing to pay a lot more than local visitors and therefore they created a two tier market so they could set the highest price point for both.


Arguably, and its an argument I tend to agree with, the local price wouldn't be set so high if it wasn't for the amount taken in from overseas visitors. Whether those overseas visitors (mainly US I'd imagine) should be blamed for that is another question but personally I don't think so. But all the same it has had a significant effect on this side of the pond.


Golf is now much more expensive for local golfers. Their own membership subs maybe haven't increased dramatically but an awful lot of club members play rounds at other courses as visitors and therefore have seen a dramatic rise in the cost of their "away days" in recent years.


Niall


Niall


My take is slightly different. The GI rate is a perk of membership to an affiliated club. I see no problem and actually think its a good idea to add value to memberships. I take issue with the 150 Euro rate. The club has jacked the fees so much in recent years that it completely puts me off. This has happened at many clubs, its just that Ireland has far fewer first/second tier courses and it stands out more when they jack their rates up. In the case of Strandhill putting the rate up 5X in about 10 years is unprecendented so far as I know.


Ciao
Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: jeffwarne on October 14, 2022, 11:07:36 AM
I didn't love the vitriol when it's those very same "Yanks" who are getting gouged so he can pay less.


Dan


I totally disagree with your premis that US visitors are being asked to pay more so that Irish visitors can pay less. I don't believe that's the case at all. What I think happened is that some smart marketing type realised that firstly US visitors are generally willing to pay a lot more than local visitors and therefore they created a two tier market so they could set the highest price point for both.


Arguably, and its an argument I tend to agree with, the local price wouldn't be set so high if it wasn't for the amount taken in from overseas visitors. Whether those overseas visitors (mainly US I'd imagine) should be blamed for that is another question but personally I don't think so. But all the same it has had a significant effect on this side of the pond.


Golf is now much more expensive for local golfers. Their own membership subs maybe haven't increased dramatically but an awful lot of club members play rounds at other courses as visitors and therefore have seen a dramatic rise in the cost of their "away days" in recent years.


Niall


Niall


My take is slightly different. The GI rate is a perk of membership to an affiliated club. I see no problem and actually think its a good idea to add value to memberships. I take issue with the 150 Euro rate. The club has jacked the fees so much in recent years that it completely puts me off. This has happened at many clubs, its just that Ireland has far fewer first/second tier courses and it stands out more when they jack their rates up. In the case of Strandhill putting the rate up 5X in about 10 years is unprecendented so far as I know.


Ciao


It was 75 Euros when I played it in June 2018.
I guess you gotta charge double when you're giving half off.....

Title: Re: Mayo & Sligo: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on October 14, 2022, 07:21:14 PM
In September, I made a tee time at a club that had the visitor rate at 35 quid on their website. No mention of needing to be "affiliated." When they discerned that I was from the US, they decided I would have to pay 80 quid. I cancelled.
Title: Re: 2008 Mayo & Sligo Tour: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on November 26, 2023, 05:59:45 AM
Been on site for the last six weeks completing a large phase of work. Since I last posted:


- New 1st tee complex, shielding dune and early fairway
- New 7th tee complex
- Re-done entire dune housing 12th green and 11th tee
- 12th green re-worked at back to give views of bay and mountain
- New 11th tees + first 90 yards of fairway lowered by 10 feet to tie in to two dune ridges. Large, penal cross-bunker in to ridge.
- 10th green re-worked to right. Two new greenside bunkers.
- New practice chipping green
- 13th egress from tee re-worked
- Entire area around clubhouse landscaped in to dune land. Previous shrubbery removed
- Starting to reduce hard paths and replace with grass where possible, quartz were not.


We’re slowly getting there. Only 6,200 yards Par-70 but whole golf experience significantly elevated from a few years ago. Some of the work is large but a lot of it is focused on very rudimentary man-made areas built by the members in the 80’s.
Title: Re: 2008 Mayo & Sligo Tour: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Garland Bayley on November 26, 2023, 12:17:18 PM
Been on site for the last six weeks completing a large phase of work. Since I last posted:


- New 1st tee complex, shielding dune and early fairway
- New 7th tee complex
- Re-done entire dune housing 12th green and 11th tee
- 12th green re-worked at back to give views of bay and mountain
- New 11th tees + first 90 yards of fairway lowered by 10 feet to tie in to two dune ridges. Large, penal cross-bunker in to ridge.
- 10th green re-worked to right. Two new greenside bunkers.
- New practice chipping green
- 13th egress from tee re-worked
- Entire area around clubhouse landscaped in to dune land. Previous shrubbery removed
- Starting to reduce hard paths and replace with grass where possible, quartz were not.


We’re slowly getting there. Only 6,200 yards Par-70 but whole golf experience significantly elevated from a few years ago. Some of the work is large but a lot of it is focused on very rudimentary man-made areas built by the members in the 80’s.

Old #9 still in place? No replacement with a new #5 inserted, and #4 extended?
Title: Re: 2008 Mayo & Sligo Tour: STRANDHILL GC
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on November 27, 2023, 02:18:16 AM
Correct Garland. We re-worked the 9th a little to help with safety for the neighbours.


This because the original plan has been shelved for now. It was a very environmentally friendly plan but when you are dealing with SAC’s, you are hitting your head against a wall. So you need money to keep going.