Brilliant weekend for Bagenalstown Pitch and Putt Club
Bagenalstown pitch & putt men's team - Johnny Dowling, Darren McNally, Luke Kelly, Kevin Power, Leo Whelan and David McGrath. Photo: Thomas Nolan Photography.
A benefit for the local economy but a huge success for Bagenalstown Pitch and Putt Club.
These were the thoughts of Juvenile Co-ordinator, Ken Hickey, as he reflected on a massive weekend for the Barrowside club who hosted the National Intercounty Championships.
Club Chairman, Keith McDonald and Leo Whelan who is Secretary, were two of the leaders who made it all happen where 134 competitors played on the course while it is estimated over 500 spectators attended. The men’s team of six and ladies team of four play singles, foursomes and four balls which are accumulated over the two days.
“It was a fantastic weekend for us. The crowd that came in were very complimentary about our course. We are trying to push it out as a championship course,” said Hickey.
Cork won the men’s final with Kildare coming out on top in the ladies event.
Bagenalstown had its own Amen Corner with the short 15th 72 metre hole playing tough in the conditions.
“When the wind blows it can be a disaster. We had the greens as fast as we could have them. It all played into a wonderful spectacle on that hole. There were holes in one, birdies and bigger scores,” recalled Hickey.
The Bagenalstown man says bigger and better things could and will come the way of the club.
“We have been already announced as the host for the juvenile All-Ireland next year. Of course we have a chance of winning that as we were third in the All-Ireland in Tipperary. It is an honour and we are all very excited.”
