Captains’ and President’s Drive-In take place at Baltinglass Golf Club

The Captains’ and President’s Drive-In took place at Baltinglass Golf Club on Saturday, marking the official start of the golfing season and a very enjoyable occasion for members and guests.

On arrival, everyone was warmly welcomed and treated to tea, coffee and punch before proceedings got underway. Chairperson Niall addressed those present and, on behalf of all members, wished Captains Pat and Kate and President Orla every success for the year ahead in 2026.

To mark the occasion, Captains Pat and Kate together with President Orla planted a tree beside the first tee box, a lovely gesture to commemorate the beginning of their year in office. This was followed by the traditional ceremonial drive-in, which was enjoyed by the large gathering in attendance.

Following the ceremony, members and guests made their way to the clubhouse where a beautiful meal was served by John Fitzpatrick and the team at Madunkey’s Restaurant. Speaking on behalf of the restaurant, John expressed his appreciation to the members for their continued support and said the team looked forward to working alongside the new officers throughout the year.

In their respective speeches, Captains Pat and Kate and President Orla thanked everyone for the many good wishes they had received. They also paid tribute to their families and friends for their encouragement and support. Special acknowledgement was given to the many volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the club runs smoothly throughout the year. A particular word of thanks was extended to Eamon for the outstanding work carried out on the course, which was widely praised by members on the day. The captains also acknowledged the dedication and contribution of past captains whose commitment and leadership have played a major role in the continued success and development of the club.

The fabulous Jason Stubbs provided excellent entertainment after the meal, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all present. When he finished, several talented singers from among the members kept the atmosphere going and added greatly to the enjoyment of the evening.

The officers expressed their enthusiasm for the year ahead and said they looked forward to working alongside all members to ensure another enjoyable and successful season of golf for everyone. With the golfing season now officially underway, members can look forward to a busy calendar of competitions and social events in the months ahead.

Inter-Club Season The draws for this year’s Inter-Club competitions were posted on the club notice board over the weekend and preparations are now underway for what promises to be another busy season for the club’s teams.

In the Barton Cup, the club will travel to Cill Dara with the tie to be played on or before April 26th. The Pierce Purcell Shield team will have home advantage against the winners of Millicent and Palmerstown House, with the match scheduled to be completed on or before May 24th.

The Leinster Senior Men’s Fourball side will make the trip to Woodenbridge on or before June 1st, while the Duggan Cup team will meet the winners of Callan and Borris away on or before June 7th. In the Brennan Cup, the club will face Mount Juliet away, with the tie to be played on or before June 24th. In the mixed competition, the club will host Carlow in the Irish Mixed Foursomes on or before April 26th.

The ladies’ teams will also be in action, with Kilkea Castle visiting for the Women’s Challenge Trophy on June 1st and the Women’s Trophy team travelling to Rathsallagh on or before June 7th, while Craddockstown will be the visitors for the Revive Active Fourball on or before May 10th.

Draws for the South Leinster Trophy and Cullen Trophy have yet to be released and will be announced in due course.

A team managers’ information evening will be hosted by the club shortly, and invitations will be circulated via WhatsApp to all team managers to attend. Members are encouraged to get behind all our teams and lend their support as they represent the club in the upcoming inter-club competitions.