Golf Business News – Portmarnock completes renovation of Jameson Golf Links by unveiling new look 17

Portmarnock Resort has completed a multi-million euro refurbishment of its newly refurbished Jameson Golf Links, an exciting two-year project which has seen many holes repaired on the championship golf course.

Reimagined photo opening 17^th hole – formerly a challenging par three but now an exciting par four of risk and reward – brings to an end a career that has created one of the most exciting and scenic links courses in Ireland.

Formerly known as the Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links, various changes were made to Bernhard Langer's original design in 1995, including the elevation of many boxes and greens to bring the sea closer to the course and create stunning views of Dublin's Velvet Strand in north Dublin. the famous island known locally as the Eye of Ireland.

The project was led by Northland Real Estate Properties and the Gagliardi family, who took over the resort in 2019, and the renovation was designed by Jeff Lynch, director and chief architect of (re)GOLF.

The reconstruction of the course brings to life the inseparable connection between the country, the clubhouse and the famous Jameson whiskey dynasty – a family that played an important role in the introduction of the game of golf in Ireland and especially the coast north of Dublin.

Following the opening of the early hole – which was extended to a 355-yard par four with a tabletop green complex and new bunkering – the course now plays as a par 72, measuring 7,266 yards from the back tees.

Although 100 yards longer than before from the back tee, a more playable test is presented from three sets of forward tees and improvements to the landings and seating area ensure that golfers of all abilities can manage, and enjoy their approach.

Paul McCanny, director of golf at Jameson Golf Links, said: “The feedback we've been getting from members and visitors to the changes made to the links over the last year or so has been fantastic.

“Jeff Lynch and (again) GOLF Design, DAR Golf, Aquaturf Solutions and our Jameson Golf Links maintenance team delivered the highest quality work. The goal was to make the most of our amazing dunescape while enhancing the golf experience. We believe that Jameson Golf Links is now one of the best golf links in Ireland. “

Most of the action on this course took place on the last ten holes. Both the 12th and 14th holes – previously par fours – have been redesigned as par fives, with the raised green at the front offering stunning views of the famous Velvet Strand, Howth Head, Lambay and Ireland's Eye.

Among those new par fives, the once par-five 13th hole is now the most challenging par four, becoming the first course's stroke index. The 15th has also been shortened from the fourth to the third section.

Changes to the former dog-legged eighth – now transformed into a straight fourth following the development of a new fairway, green complex and grass routes – have allowed for the walking and expansion of the course's irrigation pond, greatly increasing its water harvesting capacity and sustainability. testimonials.

Jeff Lynch, from re(GOLF) design, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to consult with Northland Properties and the team at Portmarnock Resort & Jameson Golf Links. The layout here was already considered a suitable challenge for many golfers – our aim was to improve the connection between the visitor and the beach experience.

“We have tried to increase this natural connection from time to time during the lesson while complementing, if we can add, the structural strategy. I believe we have delivered a hand-crafted facility for the golfer and a facility that all involved can be proud of.”