Castlegregory Golf Club

So near and yet so far - again !
Arriving fit & well on Saturday p.m. our trusty troops took on Killorglin who had beaten their local rivals, Dooks in the morning sunshine. As the wind rose strongly over Lough Leane, the Men's club treasurer Sean and his personal health advisor Merlyn led us off with a perfect drive. Next off the t-box, Rebels Kieran and Anna, did likewise. Brian and Sandra, he of hurling repute and she being a neighbour of Thady Quill couln't be outdone and followed suit. The Chairman, accompanied by the newly wed Edel, had no choice but to match that & finally the two Vice Captains, Joe & Liz, took no notice & just hit straight out too.
The quality of golf was high from both teams but Castle always seemed to have the edge and the efforts of the moring match put Killorglin under extra pressure. Edel & Mike led from the start and finished on the 13th. The wily O'Connors were next in, winning 3 & 2. The Lady Captain & the "Hurler(!?!)" were comfortable, then stuttered (we'll be walking to the clubhouse anyway !) so finished on the 17th (2&1). Just ahead, taking inspiration from the Pairc Ui Chaoimh performance, Kieran & Anna, turned a deficit of 3 with 4 holes to go, into a win on the 18th.The Vice Captains were called in off the 17th fairway, 1up & looking good. 4.5 / 0.5
Sunday morning saw us pitted against Ross, who we beat last year in Killorglin. The Ross team is usually single figure young lads and high handicap 'more mature' ladies and this year was no different. Conditions were again warm with a stiff breeze.
First off the blocks were Jason "young JR" and " I'll be fine once I get going" Tina. Their study of the course on Saturday paid dividends and they came home 4 & 3. Edel & Mike went off second and had a ding-dong game, going 3 down, 2 up, 1 down and finally succumbed on the 19th (which ultimately decided the match). The O'Connors, as usual, finished early, 4 & 3. Sandra & Brian met a really 'hot' golfing couple and 'came second'  7& 6. The Shannons were also involved in a really tight battle and were pipped on the 18th. Both matches were played in a real sporting fashion as one would expect. Ross played Ceann Sibeal in the final and again won 3 / 2, that match also decided on the 19th.
Thanks to all those on the panel who gave of their time and effort to play and support. This is arguably the strongest team in the Club and success is not far away. The number of people willing to don the club colours in play and support is ever increasing and this also augers well. Roll on the Nines of Kerry.