Galway Golf Club 1895-1995

Galway Golf Club was founded in 1895 and its history dates back to its establishment by Colonel H.F.N. Jourdain, a British Officer stationed in Galway. Initially, the nine-hole club was located at Renmore Barracks before moving to Gentian Hill. It later moved to Ballyshanduff, Barna from 1905 to 1925 when the disgruntled landlord (Sebastian Nolan who inherited wealth but also a successful businessman, the largest employer in Galway) of Gentian Hill had issue with their interpretation of the rules. Barna was leased from Michael Lynch but not before the committee had Richard Larkin, the Bray professional, look over the 30 acres of land for it suitability.

In 1925, it found its permanent home at Blackrock, Salthill on the O’Hara Estate. The course was designed by Messrs Colt and Alison. Interestly it was actually Dr. Alister MacKenzie who visited Galway and in a single day had outlined the course route with stakes denoting the tees and greens. At the time the land was a “wilderness of scrub, gorse, rocks, bogs and callows” and yet, such was his genius, the MacKenzie layout including 14 holes on one side of the road remains relatively intact. The work around making MacKenzie’s vision a reality nearly bankrupted the club and necessitated the sale of some parcels of land to stay afloat. It would be 1929 before the full eighteen holes were completed.

The club features an 18-hole championship standard parkland course with spectacular views over Galway Bay, the Burren, and the Aran Islands. The course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery. There have been disputes among members, including an incident where a member bought land to prevent others from using it.

In 1900, G. Fernie, the brother of the Troon professional, Willie Fernie was professional at the club. Galway Golf Club is associated with famous golfers Christy O’Connor Snr. and Christy O’Connor Jnr., both of whom learned their golf at the club and went on to become multiple Ryder Cup players. Bob Wallace was well-known teaching professional. Other notable golfers include Liam Nolan, Joe Lyons, Eddie McCormack, Ronan Mullarney, Mark O’Sullivan, Evelyn O’Beirne and S. Keenan. The club hosted the Irish Amateur Close Championship, the Dunlop Tournament and the Irish PGA Championship.