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Castleblayney Men's Golf Club Notes

31st January 2012

It’s never a good idea to start thinking that the worst of the Irish winter is behind you. But of course that’s exactly what the mild January caused us to do, and then what do you know, as they say in cricket, “Rain stopped play.” So we drew a blank on Week 2 of the Castlecool Spring league and it’s back to writing gossip. Let’s hope Week 3 gives us a little scope for golf news.

As many of you are already aware, Concra Wood now features in the Top 50 Courses in several publications. This week we are delighted to report a further honour. The Golfers Guide to Ireland 2012 has named Concra Wood as Ulster’s Hidden Gem. Our Captain Noel accepted this award at a ceremony in Dublin last week. Photos of the event can be viewed on our website concrawood.ie. This exposure can only enhance our growing reputation in Ireland and beyond.
January has seen some further developments in our project. James King has built a new wall that has really tidied up our buggies area and now our captain Noel has overseen a major facelift to our entrance. A huge thanks to James and Noel for very good examples of what a bit of initiative can achieve.
Another new feature in our clubhouse is launched this Thursday (2nd February). Each week we’re going to have a Bonus Ball game. €5 buys a number for Saturday night’s draw. If your number is the Lotto’s Bonus Ball, you’re quid’s in. What could be simpler?
And finally for this week, we have a Fun Rules Night planned for later this month. Keep an eye on our notice boards and website as the date has yet to be confirmed. A GUI referee will host the quiz to test your knowledge of the rules of golf. And through the fun and games, it’s hoped members may even learn a thing or two.

24th January 2012

The start of the Spring League comes as a great relief to golf club PROs who’ve spent the last month scraping the barrel for some bits and pieces to fill up their weekly columns. Now there’s some real golf to report! And we kick off with the very encouraging news that no fewer than 80 out of 88 entrants in the Castlecool Spring League braved the elements at the weekend on the behalf of their respective teams. I’m sure the other eight have sick notes - no “The dog ate my homework” style excuses will do in this Golf Club.
Right from the word ‘go’ Team 4 has hit the front with two of their members winning their Categories in week 1. 20 points apiece for Michael Marray and Seniors captain Tom Mc Hugh saw off all competitors in categories 2 and 3 and gives them a massive boost towards qualification. In second place is Martin Mc Ginn’s Team 20 on 39 points – that’s 19 for Paddy King and 20 for Joe Quinn. Even though they didn’t win their respective categories, all bets on this team making the last eight are off. But the biggest congratulations of the week goes to Ted Brennan who was the top scorer with 21 points. This was enough to win category 4 and propel his team 7 to 38 points. The rest have quite a bit of catching up to do – most teams just about scraped their way into the 30’s. Of those, one man who can hold his head high is Martin Allen, whose 19 points won Category 1. This completed an almost total monopoly for our seniors. Could it be that Friday’s weather was more benign (see seniors notes below) or are they just too strong for the rest of us? Week 2 will surely tell a tale or two. We look forward to another high turnout, and members are asked by our hard-working competition committee to make their job a little easier by marking their name, handicap and team number clearly on their card! Oh, and remember that this time around we play the back nine! That’ll sort the men from the boys.
Members are reminded of one or two more pieces of housekeeping this week. Firstly, those who book slots on our timesheet and then don’t turn up must be more considerate to other members. It’s not much to ask that names are removed 24 hours or more before such a no-show. On busy weekends such as we have during the Spring League time slots are at a premium!
And secondly, annual subs are now overdue. Fines will soon kick in – you have been warned.
And now for this week’s senior notes:
Low turn out last Friday due to cold and showers.
Winning team consisted of the following: Gerry Tracy, Pat Horgan, Andy Whelan.
Draw next Friday at 12:30, Tee Time 1pm.
Please repair pitch marks on the greens which are fantastic for January.

Hear, Hear!
And finally for this week, the draw for our Friday Night Pool Competition will take place this weekend. There are still one or two spots available. Entry is a mere 5 euro. To enter talk to one of the Padraigs at our bar.

17th January 2012

Our four club challenge final took place on Saturday at Concra. Cremartin were victorious as they completed a famous 3-2 win over a fancied Oram side, with Martin Malone and Michael Reid supplying the crucial winning point. In the third place play-off Toome scraped past Blayney, which means our Captain Noel has escaped the indignity of the wooden spoon. That dubious honour goes to Padraig Conlon – possibly the first time in history that a Blayney team Captain has sunk so low! However, Padraig remains upbeat, and is more than happy to discuss the story with customers in our clubhouse Bar.

The Castlecool Spring League draw took place on Sunday night with no fewer than twenty teams going to post. The League will run for six weeks. Two scores will be recorded per team in Weeks 1 to 5, with all four to count on the final week. Then the ever popular Matchplay series kicks in. Members are encouraged to play every week as your teams are counting on you. And don’t forget to sign in to the weekly singles event, which runs in conjunction with the league and costs a mere €3 a time.

We had just such a singles competition at the weekend, and Michael Smyth was the winner returning a score of 20 points. What’s seldom’s wonderful!

And now for this week’s Senior’s News: 17 Seniors turned out last Friday and played the second nine.

1st Team winners were PJ Harte, Pat Conlon, Andy Whelan and Eamon Johnson.

2nd Team were Joe Quinn, John Keenan and Tony Carville.

And finally for this week, any of you who prefer indoor events this time of year should sign up to our pool league. It’s hoped to get thirty-two entrants over the next week or two for this team event. Talk to Padraig at the bar, and don’t forget to congratulate him on his recent distinction.

10th January 2012

The mild conditions of the weekend allowed our members to make a welcome return to golf at Concra Wood. This time around it seems that Spring has sprung a little too soon. It’s going to be tough on the daffodils and crocuses when Winter finally arrives! Back in the world of golf, members competed in a nine hole club competition. The winner on a superb score of 24 points was Barry Reilly. Barry has been hitting the ball very nicely with his three wood for quite a while, but on Saturday he was fortunate to get a lesson from our Captain Noel in the art of driving, and this made all the difference. Nothing can possibly stop him now!

This weekend there’ll be another nine hole event, as well as the most eagerly awaited final of the 4 Club Challenge, between Oram and Cremartin. Next up for members is the Castlecool Spring League. Remember all entries must be made by this Sunday 15^th January when the draw will take place. The league will last for six weeks with competitors taking part from each Thursday to Sunday. And anyone who plays more than once over the weekend must submit their first card for the league.

We have a new innovation in our notes for 2012 as our Senior’s Captain Tom Mc Hugh will contribute their latest news each week. Here’s his report for Week 1:

Our Seniors held their first outing of the new year with a good turn out on Friday the 6th.

Also well turned out were the players displaying their Santa gifts of thermal wear, heavy cords and dryjoy shoes.

No buggies were allowed but fair play to Peadar, he arrived for the presentation and a courtesy pint from on/off buddy Joe.

1st team winner Gen Toal, president Andy and Tom McHugh

2nd place was Gerry Tracy, Vincent Heavin, Paddy King and Larry Coleman.

Tee time for Jan 12: draw at 12:30pm, Tee Time 1:00pm.

And finally for this week, our Committees are looking into the possibility of adding a starter’s hut or assembly point to our first tee. As you might guess, there have been many suggestions. Should any member or shareholder have any bright ideas as to the best option, please make your ideas known to our Captain Noel in the weeks ahead. It’s hoped to complete this project by the time the golf season kicks in.

3rd January 2012

A Happy New Year to you all. Let’s hope 2012 turns out to be another wonderful year on the fairways (or close enough) of Concra Wood. The Festive Season saw Stop Start weather conditions, which were a great improvement on the previous two years. The main golfing news was easy victories for Oram and Cremartin over Blayney and Toome respectively in the four club challenge. Celebrated like Championship wins, these results set up this Saturday’s eagerly awaited final. Good luck to Martin, Seán and their teams.

This weekend sees a nine hole competition for members. As the sheet for the Castlecool Spring League has now been posted, all who wish to participate should make their way to the noticeboard to sign up. The draw will be held on Sunday 15^th January.

While our course had inconsistent use over the past fortnight, the same could not be said of our clubhouse. The Christmas Party nights were well attended but that was nothing compared to the success of our New Years celebration. The various Paurics behind the bar were run off their feet for the night, and all in attendance could see that Concra is the ideal location for parties and functions. Well done to Padraig Conlon and all his staff on a really well run event.

Annual membership flowed in in December. Yet there are still a number of subscriptions outstanding. Therefore our Premium Credit phased payment scheme has been extended for this month. Members are reminded that signing up early is of great benefit to our club.

And finally for this week, anyone who has squirreled a few shillings away over the Christmas will b e delighted to hear that Conor is offering big discounts in his January Sale in our Pro Shop. Remember all those errors you blamed on your equipment. Don’t let it come between you and golfing greatness in 2012!

19th December 2011

On a weekend when golf was not possible, Santy arrived and lit up our golf club. The clubhouse was quite literally packed to the rafters on Sunday for his annual visit. He performed the miracle of the loaves and fishes again, bestowing presents on over one hundred and eighty big kids and small! And the bells were ringing well into

the night….
Our much awaited final weekend of the Sealo Freight Christmas League sadly bit the dust. Therefore the long time leaders Team 5 – Ciarán Mc Mahon, James King, Joe Quinn and our new President Andy Whelan - have been declared the winners. Let’s hope this weekend’s thaw continues so everyone can get a game of golf during the festive season. Our Competitions Committee has arranged an Open Competition from next Tuesday 27th through to Friday 30th December. The cost to members is €10.

Members are reminded that our Customers Christmas Party takes place this Friday 23rd at 9.00pm. As part of a big night’s entertainment we’ll have our Christmas draw and there’ll be spot prizes during the evening as well. Music is by the one and only Paddy King – irresistible.
On Thursday 29th December a Poker Classic takes place in our clubhouse. The cost is €50 plus €5 registration fee. The first deal is at 7.30pm and the good news is there’ll be a Full Pay Out.

And there’s a real novelty event in our club on Friday 30th December. Our new Captain Noel Gorman has organised a Clay Pigeon Shoot which kicks off on our Driving Range at 12 noon. For more details, talk to Noel. That warms us up nicely for the highlight of our festive events – the New Year’s Eve Party. Tickets are priced at €15 and they’re selling like hot cakes. The evening begins with a Champagne Reception at 8.30 pm, with finger food for all at 10.30 pm. Music for the night is by Kelle Redmond and her Band. Tickets are available at the Clubhouse Bar.

One last reminder that annual subscriptions are now due. Please sort this out this week, and look forward to another great golfing year in 2012.
And finally for this week, our Captain Noel and Lady Captain Eithne wish all our shareholders, members, families and friends a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

13th December 2011

The big winter freeze meant that not a single ball was hit in anger around Concra at the weekend, so Week 5 of the Sealo Freight Winter League was wiped out. We go ahead as planned with Week 6 this weekend, when all scores count. Each team’s best four weekly scores will be totalled this Sunday evening when the winner will be declared. As reported last week, so many teams are still in contention that predictions are impossible. Every member should ensure his full team makes it out for the final push.

While the golf course may be quiet at the minute, our clubhouse is operating at full tilt. A brochure outlining all our Christmas events is available to members, and here are the main points:

We have a Massive Christmas Entertainment Weekend ahead. Friday 16^th is Party Night with music from the Kelle Redmond Band. Another Party Night on Saturday 17^th features music from Beatroot. Then on Sunday 18^th Santa Claus makes his annual visit to Concra Wood at 4.00 pm. Afterwards we’ll have our Christmas League and Novelty Sunday presentation. Then at 5.00 pm there’ll be an evening of music in our bar courtesy of Irish Barry.

Next week our Customers Christmas Party takes place on Friday 23^rd at 9.00pm. As part of a big night’s entertainment we’ll have our Christmas draw.

On Thursday 29^th December a Poker Classic takes place in our clubhouse. The cost is €50 plus €5 registration fee. The first deal is at 7.30pm and the good news is there’ll be a Full Pay Out.

And there’s a real novelty event in our club on Friday 30^th December. Our new Captain Noel Gorman has organised a Clay Pigeon Shoot which kicks off on our Driving Range at 12 noon. For more details, talk to Noel. That warms us up nicely for the highlight of our festive events – the New Year’s Eve Party. Tickets are priced at €15 and they’re selling like hot cakes. The evening begins with a Champagne Reception at 8.30 pm, with finger food for all at 10.30 pm. Music for the night is by Kelle Redmond and her Band. Tickets are available at the Clubhouse Bar.

There is one upcoming golf fixture to report this week. The four club shootout between Toome, Cremartin. Oram and Blayney takes place on Tuesday 27^th December. The Team Captains could well be in touch this week. Be prepared!

And finally for this week, members are advised that annual subs should be paid by December 31^st. Anyone wishing to avail of the Premium Credit instalment method should contact the office by this date. Membership of Concra Wood at €20 per week can’t be bad, and early payment is really valuable to our club.

22nd November 2011

Charlie wins Golfer of the Year.

Apologies for last week’s notes or lack of, one could blame the dog for eating the homework, or leaving the bag at home but it all boiled down to hard sums and a difficulty squaring circles! Anyway the declared winners in the final Golfer of the Year competition were, Finbarr Carville First, James King Second, Ronan Mc Ateer Gross and Charlie Mc Donnell Third. This third place win was important as it secured the Golfer of the Year title for Charlie. The title of Golfer of the Year was well earned and deserved by Charlie and it would be very difficult to find a younger winner of this prestigious accolade in any club in Ireland. Other recent club competition winners were Gareth Woods, Jack Mc Donnell, Phil Mc Cague and Paul Campbell and last weekend both Paul and Philip managed to figure in the winners again with Ronan Mc Ateer and Bart Mc. Namarra. Jack Mc Donnell came from three down to win the Society Cup while Paul Campbell won the Terencia Carragher Cup. This week sees the start of the Winter League sponsored by Sealo Freight. Teams and rules are on the notice board. The league can be played in conjunction with the normal weekend competition. Special 9 hole cards are available in the pro shop. Next weekend’s 18 hole competition is sponsored by Monaghan Life. Tom McHugh reports that 21 seniors turned out on Friday last and the winners were, 1st Joe Quinn, Pat Horgan, Gariel Moore, 2nd: Joe McGrath, Vincent Heavin, Ray Kernan, 3rd: Eamon Toal, Larry Coleman, Frank Murray and the set time for winter seniors competitions will be assembly at 12:00 for 12:30 start. Finally a gentle reminder regarding the efforts to tar the buggy path on the 10th hole – All contributions may be left in the pro shop or directly to the vice captain.

8th November 2011

Charlie wins Golfer of the Year.

25th October 2011

Nothing to declare!

A little earlier this year the computer couldn’t separate two players who tied for first place in a weekend competition. Last weekend the computer and the competitions committee couldn’t agree on a result and at the time of writing even though there was a declared field of runners and riders the stewards needed a little time to study the video footage to ascertain if there was a little too much use of the whip in the final straight before declaring a winner. It’s all the more important that the video analysis is used to the full as this year’s Golfer of the Year title hangs in the balance with at least two members fighting it out at the top of the table for this prestigious prize. Anyway more later no doubt and like walking through the green aisle at the airport or at the old custom’s hut at Carnagh, at this point there’s nothing to declare!

Next weekend’s competition is sponsored by Castle Printing and will be for category prizes. Entries for Winter League are invited this week and next with a view to the league starting on the week commencing November 7^th. The league can be played any day or as part of normal weekend competition. See noticeboard for further details.

Look out this week for a little improvement to the path to the first tee. This initiative sponsored by the Wednesday evening crew and Club Professional Conor McKenna will hopefully prompt similar efforts at improving course pathways over the coming months. Head greenkeeper John McBride has already improved a number of course pathways and with a little help this work could become a lot more permanent. More details later.

18th October 2011

Murphy answers his critics.

It may have taken a little while to happen but after his son’s oft reported success this summer, Paul Murphy was determined to restore some form of golfing respectability to himself before the seasons conclusion. A massive 44 points including birdies on 14 and 17 saw Paul take the weekend competition with lots to spare. More importantly his handicap has moved a little closer to his sons with Paul now playing off a more respectable 10. Category 1 was won by Padraig Conlan with 38 points Category 2 by Emmett Flanagan with 37 points and Category 3 by Andy Whelan with 34 points. Next Weeks Competition is sponsored by Shanes tyres, a Golfer of The Year competition off the gold tees.

11th October 2011

Martin Malone is the new VC and it’s Andy Whelan for President!

The committee had a well deserved night away last weekend and as is traditional the incumbent vice captain announces his successor on the Saturday night of that event. The name of the new vice captain was probably the worst kept secret in the club, however as recent history will testify one can’t assume anything with regards to the announcement of an incoming captain until the vice captain makes it official at the annual committee outing. As expected the announcement of Martin Malone as vice captain was made and very well received by those present. No doubt this will be reciprocated throughout club circles as Martin has been a hard working committee member and stalwart of the club for many years. Another very popular announcement was the nomination by the outgoing president Raymond Kernan of Andy Whelan as club president for the next two years. Andy is one of the most respected members of the club and is very deserving of his new honorary position. On the playing front Michael Smyth won the committee outing with more points to spare than some of the competitors could accumulate over eighteen holes. Michael looked on very concerned but didn’t overly protest as handicap convenor Mark Conlon took out his pencil sharpener late on Saturday night. At Concra, the weekend winner was Gareth Woods with 35 points, followed by Thomas Brennan also with 35 points. Frank McDonnell won the gross with 31 gross points just shading it over his son Jack on the breakdown. Third prize went to Greg Sibley with 33 points. Next weekend’s competition is sponsored by McKenna and Cairns and for category prizes off the green tees. Finally as members know the Wednesday evening crew raised money to buy a defibrillator. Trained instructor on the use of a defibrillator and joint organiser of this very important fundraising initiative Kieran Prunty will be organising a training event for members in the coming weeks.

4th October 2011

Classy Carville and Brilliant Bill

This weekend’s winner Martin Carville has recently struggled with the fact that his handicap was drifting towards the mid teen range and unhappy with this prospect and with only a few counting competitions remaining this season Martin was determined to retrieve his season. No fewer than 43 points helped restore normalitywith birdies on 7,14 and 18 helping win the weekend competition as well as the Past Captains competition which also took place on Sunday. Both wins see Martin happy to report handicap respectability by the season’s end. Category 1 was won by Des Duffy with 35 points, this is Dessie’s second week in a row in the winners enclosure, Category 2 was won by Declan Smyth with 39 points and Category 3 was won by Darren Mullen with 38 points.

It was a nail biting affair in the second leg of the Howell Cup final played at Nuremore. As reported last week, following a late rally in a number of crucial matches of the home leg, Castleblayney travelled to Nuremore with a 10 to 6 advantage. Getting the 16.5 points needed to secure victory was always going to be tough, however, as Nuremor, as is the norm had some formidable partnerships. So it proved to be with Castleblayney behind in 2 matches and all square in 1 after 9 holes. Blayney’s first pairing of team captain Gareth McMahon and Paul McArdle managed to win the back 9 to secure their teams first point of the day. This was followed up by a second pairing of Gerry McCaul and Philip McCague whose match finished all square for 2 further points. The heavily favoured pairing of Noel O’Reilly and Greg Duffy had secured the match and front 9 for 3 points but failed to secure the last half point needed when Noel uncharacteristically 3-putted on the 18th green.

This meant that with the teams now sitting 16 points to 15 in Blayney’s favour, everything came down to the last match. The final pairing of Bill McCaghey and Patsy Boyle had it all to do. Having lost the front 9 and the match, they were 2 down on the back 9 with 2 to play when news got to them that a half point from their match was needed to secure victory. Cometh the hour cometh the man. From a tricky lie short of the green on 17 Bill chipped on leaving himself a tough 20ft putt for par, but when the Nuremore man missed his opportunity for par, Bill stepped up and sank the putt to bring the match down the 18th. On the 18th once more it was Bill who came in for Blayney as Patsy found himself in some difficulty off the tee. Electing to use his putter from just off the green Bill left himself another tough putt of at least 20ft. Calmness personified, Bill duly sank the putt to win the hole and secure the last half point needed for Blayney to win the Howell Cup. Needless to say by the time the team returned to Concra on Sunday evening, Bill’s winning putt became longer, however, credit where it is due when it was needed, Bill was simply brilliant!

Next week sponsors Credit Union .This is the penultimate Golfer of The Year competition for 2011 and will be played off the gold tees. The presentation night on Saturday last was a great success, however for the small number of winners who were anyone not in attendance, their prizes are credited to their respective G.U.I. cards.

27th September 2011

Des Duffy wins Blayney Cup.

Weather, don’t mention the weather! The expected Indian Summer forgot to turn up again last weekend seeing members once again battered and bruised by the elements. Two low men set the pace with Des Duffy’s 39 points taking the honours and securing his first Blayney Cup followed by Ronan Mc Ateer who shot 38 and second prize. Round of the week was Niall Dignams 36 stableford points or 4 over which won the gross while David O’Neill took third prize with 37 points.

Tom Mc Hugh reports that the senior members played for the Jimmy Coleman Memorial trophy on Monday 19th last over 14 holes. 21 Seniors took part with Noel Flanagan taking first prize followed by P.J. Harte in second. Other prize winners included, Category 1, Joe Quinn, Category 2, Pat Horgan, 1st nine, Ted Brennan, Past Captains Raymond Kiernan, Special Senior Gabriel Moore. 21 seniors turned out and enjoyed a buffet and presentation of prizes by Liz Coleman in the clubhouse afterwards. The next Senior’s outing is on Friday 30th September at 2pm

On the Inter club scene the first leg of the Howell Cup was played at Concra on Sunday against Nuremore. Rock solid and sure things Gerry McCaul and Paul Mc Ardle didn’t have it as expected and more than surprisingly failed to raise a flag in match one. Team Captain Gareth Mc Mahon and Noel O’Reilly lost the front nine but battled from two down to take 3 points. Greg Duffy and Joe Mc Grath also secured 3 points with Joe keeping the match alive in the front nine and a coffee, Redbull and Solpadine induced reawakening by Greg helping a lot on the back nine. Peter “Bill” Mc Cahay and Patsy Boyle took no prisoners and nice and quietly and without any fuss took all 4 points.

Members are reminded that there will be a presentation of outstanding prizes with music by G Mac in the clubhouse on Saturday night next. Next weekend competition is sponsored by Kingspan and for category prizes.

20th September 2011

After a number of runner up places Brendan Carragher finally won his first, first prize when his 38 points was the pick of the bunch from last weekend’s entries. Category One was won by Gary Morgan with 34 points, Category Two by Gareth Mc Mahon with 35 points and Category Three by John Redmond with 37 points. Next weekend’s competition is for the Blayney Cup it’s a Golfer of the Year event and will be played off the gold markers. Members are asked to keep October 1^st free as there will be a presentation of all outstanding prizes in the clubhouse on that night.

13th September 2011

Emmet Brennan wins Patrons Prize

Former Faughs great Emmet Brennan won his first major prize at Concra Wood last weekend when he won Michael McHugh’s Patron’s prize. Emmet could have been forgiven for thinking that he had left a score on the course as his 35 points total didn’t really justify his efforts. Gale force winds and rain helped see Emmet’s efforts stay one ahead of Brendan Carragher who returned 34 points and Jimmy Quinn who finished third on the breakdown. The gross prize went to Niall Dignam with an all things considered very impressive 32 points. Next weekend’s competition is sponsored by Mementos with members playing for category prizes. Finally congratulations to Mickey McHugh Jnr., Barry Reilly, Fergal Rafter and all the other golfing Gaels who regained the hurling championship last Sunday.

6th September 2011

Barry O’Reilly wins Prandy Duffy Cup and Blayney win Ryder Cup!

It was a weekend of family celebrations in and around Concra last weekend when almost 300 members of the extended Irwin family from throughout Ireland, Britain, Australia and the USA met at the clubhouse for a very enjoyable family reunion. At the same time members of the family of the late Michael “Prandy” Duffy came home from the USA and with those based in Castleblayney joined in the celebrations surrounding the 20^th anniversary playing of the Prandy Duffy Cup. Speaking at the presentation of the cup James Duffy thanked the club for remembering Prandy on an annual basis and he made a presentation to the instigators of the cup over 20 years ago, namely, Ronnie Dignam, Paul Mulligan, Paddy King, Eamon Tavey and Paddy Cole. To coincide with the event a number of friends of the Duffy family travelled from New York to take part in a Ryder Cup style competition against a Castleblayney selection. As is only right at a club with a renowned reputation for hospitality, the visitors were well looked after in the clubhouse and later on around the town. This as can be imagined caused considerable “jet lag” for the visiting team on the first tee next morning. Castleblayney team captain Paul Murphy played a captain’s role to perfection on Friday evening, ensuring no guest saw bed till the very early hours. The locals secured the bragging rights for the remainder of the weekend and to mark the visitors’ efforts on the golf course a symbolic donkey was presented to the visiting captain James Duffy much to the enjoyment of those present at the presentation on Sunday night. There is talk of a return fixture in New York in the future but the abiding memory will be the friendships made over the weekend. As far as the competition itself was concerned, one of the best hurlers ever in Castleblayney is considering a hurl to golf club in the near future. If he does that and if his golfing ability develops anything on a par to his hurling ability Barry O Reilly is set to claim many prizes in the future. His first big one was last weekend’s Prandy Cup with 41 points while Paudy Kindlon won Category 1 David Brohan won Category 2 and Donal Mc. Guigan Category 3. Next weekend’s competition is the Patrons Prize and it is a golfer of the year off the gold markers.

30th August 2011

Greg Duffy is President’s Champion.

Weather rather than scores was the main topic of conversation over President’s weekend when showers and gusting winds played havoc on the well over 100 members who braved the elements to play in Raymond Kernan’s Presidents Prize. There was a little bewilderment when 36 points was declared a leading qualifier score with Adrian Kelly and Greg Duffy leading the field followed by Karl Malone and Jason Murphy with 35 points.

In total seventeen players made the Sunday afternoon playoff. Adrian Kelly set the place alight with an eagle on the first playoff hole. His playing partner and co-leader had a more nervous start but still made par on one even though he wasn’t on fairway all the while he negotiated the first. Solid pars from Adrian were matched by Greg who hole by hole and caddied for by P.J. Harte played with the guile of an old pro. On the last Greg increased his lead to one and took his first Major with Adrian as runner up for the second time this year. Carl Malone took the Gross prize no doubt helped by an albatross on the par 5 fifteenth. Michael Mc Hugh Senior won the past Presidents prize and obviously the bragging rights in the family. A full list of prize winners is posted on the Notice Board.

The presentation in the clubhouse saw frequent use of metaphors and similes with regular references to bridesmaids. Adrian comforted himself with the fact that Pádraig Harrington was bridesmaid on no fewer than 22 occasions before winning a major. Greg assured himself and those present that he had no intention of ever taking on the role of bridesmaid for Adrian! Addressing the members President Raymond commended the club on the progress made during the year and while wishing the club every success in the future he noted the fact that it took the more senior members of the Conlon and McHugh households to carry the torch for their respective families on Presidents weekend. Club Captain Robert Heavin in his address stated that Raymond Kernan has been a stalwart and backbone of the club for many years and he thanked him on behalf of the club for the contribution he has made to the development of Castleblayney Golf Club.

On the interclub scene congratulations to Gareth McMahon and his Howell Cup team on securing a place in the final which will be against Nuremore. It was great to see Paul McArdle back on a club team and back to winning ways.

Next weekend members will play for the Prandy Duffy Cup and a number of members of the Duffy Family are home for the occasion. To coincide with this, a presentation will be held on Sunday night in the Club at which the winners in the competition will receive their prizes. Club prizes for the month of July will also be presented and members are asked to check the notice board for details. Members are also asked to remember that Phil Brannigan’s Monaghan GAA President’s prize will take place on Friday and on Monday the PGA Sprint event will take place at Concra when many of the country’s aspiring tour pros will play. This was a very enjoyable spectacle last year and attracted quite a number of spectators.

Finally club Vice Captain Noel Gorman is organising a divot repair session on Friday beginning at 7.30 p.m. and with the course due to be very busy over the weekend all help will be appreciated.

23rd August 2011

Pondering President’s Prize

One of the most coveted prizes of the season will be played for this weekend when members play for Raymond Kernan’s Presidents Prize. Associated with 3 golf courses in Castleblayney, Raymond is inextricably linked to the administration and playing of the game in the town for more years than he cares to remember. A consummate gentleman, Raymond’s guiding hand and gentle manner has in no small way contributed to the advance of Castleblayney Golf Club in recent times and before. So who will win the tournament which is ranked only behind Captain’s in the annual golfing calendar? The Young Guns are hard to pass. It could be Carl Malone, Jack McDonnell or Charlie McDonnell. Could Jason Murphy make it a Captain’s and President’s double? Some of the low men are currently in excellent form so Frank McDonnell, Adrian Kelly and Mickey McHugh are worth a flutter. Ciaran Prunty was tipped for captains and apparently he’s back in excellent form. Could it be a new member? Now that’s very much a possibility! Members can play for the President’s Prize on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It’s a Golfer of the Year competition and will be played off the gold tees. There will be a playoff on Sunday evening over nine holes to determine the eventual winner. Members need not be told that with the course as busy as it could possibly be, so times over the weekend on the BRS are at a premium and filling very fast. The competition convenor Seán Mulligan reports an excellent turnout thus far in the Musgrave Rumble in aid of Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children at Crumlin. This event remains open until Thursday with the winners to be declared on Friday. The winners will go forward to take part in the provincial finals which will take place in Roscommon on Sept 1st. The President’s Prize for Juveniles was played for last weekend with Frank Connolly taking First Prize followed by Jack Brannigan in second and Ryan Murphy in third. These prizes with all the Presidents Prizes will be presented on Sunday night at 9.00 p.m. Congratulations also to Frank Murray’s Cinnamon Cup team who defeated Virginia in this year’s semi final and will meet Co. Cavan later this week in the final. Tom McHugh reports an improved numbers playing in last week’s Seniors event which was won by Larry Coleman’s team which included Tony Carville and Ray Kernan. The tee time for this week’s competition is Friday 26th at 4.10pm. Enjoy Presidents!

16th August 2011

Christy O’Connor Jnr. checks out Concra.

Concra course co-designer played a visit to Castleblayney on Thursday last with Christy Senior’s son Christy “Minor”. Christy played the course and was more than impressed by the way what he refers to as “his baby” has matured since opening. Speaking with Conor McKenna in the pro shop prior to playing Christy Jnr. Stated that he is very impressed by the rave reviews the course is enjoying in the media and within golfing circles throughout Ireland. Christy Junior and Christy Minor were joined for their round by two of the club’s best juvenile prospects in Dylan Fee and James Conlon. Speaking afterwards, the former Ryder Cup winner stated that the course plays like a course which has had a chance to mature. Most of the holes he stated have developed as expected with the greens surpassing his expectations. O’Connor felt that the left of 17 is tough on long hitters who stray a little left off the tee but he felt that the cutting of rough areas throughout the course has improved the playability of the course for golfers of all standards and abilities. Commending head greenkeeper John McBride and his staff, Christy stated that it was obvious that the greens staff are very attentive to detail in their work.

The weekend competition was sponsored by Mc Elvaney Motors and someone whose name has not appeared in the notes for a few weeks only because he was on holidays once gain takes the limelight with an excellent score. By all accounts Charlie McDonnell’s short game was superb last weekend when he carded 41 points to win the McElvaney Motors Golfer of the Year Competition. Playing alongside runner up Mickey McHugh Charlie’s all round game was described as almost flawless for a player of his age. Mickey made his way closer to a handicap of 3 with a 38 point return, Gross winner Adrian Kelly is also intent on a similar handicap and took the Gross prize with 32 gross points. Ross Mc Ginn with 38 points was unlucky to finish third having lost out on the breakdown.

Next weekend will see the playing of the Musgrave Rumble. The format will change this year seeing four players per team play together with the best 3 singles cards combined to count in the competition. The competition is a repeater open to Friday next August 26^th. Entry fee is €15 per person with a fee of €10 for repeat entries. All proceeds will go toward Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children Crumlin

Seniors PRO Tom McHugh reports that there was a low turnout last Thursday due to holidays. The next Senior’s competition will be on Friday the 19th at 4.30pm. The Jimmy Carroll team failed by one point to make the play off stages, but the J.B Carr team got through by beating Armagh on Friday last in Concra. Pat Horgan and Pat Mc Neill won their match on the 17th to put the team through to the Ulster semi final against Ballymena at Concra.

This week’s Juvenile winners were 1^st Jack Mc Cauley and 2^nd Hugo Connolly.

The Monaghan GAA Supporters Investec sponsored competition was a huge success on Concra this weekend with over 250 players taking part over two days. Teams from Donegal and Dublin took first and second place with a consolation third place remaining locally.

Finally the vice captain Noel Gorman has called for volunteers to take part in a divot repair session on Friday next meeting at 7.30 p.m.

9th August 2011

Concra Wood listed in Rolex World’s Top 1000 Golf Courses.

Golf aficionados will no doubt have heard of the D’Algue Selection which saw the publication of Europe’s top 1000 courses some 15 years ago in the Peugeot Guide to European Golf. Named after Gaëtan Mourgue d'Algue, one of France’s foremost golfers and many would say the brains behind the European Tour as we know it today, D’Algue assisted by Sky commentator Bruce Critchley has now compiled a list of the top 1000 golf courses in the world and published in the Rolex Guide to the top 1000 courses in the world. There are over 30,000 courses world wide and over 200 independent inspectors including former tour players, golf writers, and golfers of all abilities used a 100 section questionnaire to assess each course. These criteria included an assessment of the site, general excellence, quality of course architecture and standards of maintenance. To the delight of shareholders and members, Concra Wood was selected as one of the Irish courses to be listed.

A top score of 100 has been awarded to just 15 exceptional courses worldwide of which there are 7 in Ireland and Britain these include Carnoustie, Muirfield, The Old Course at St Andrews, Royal Birkdale, the Championship Course at Portmarnock, the New Course at Sunningdale and the Old Course at Royal County Down. As far as the top 1000 courses In Europe are concerned, England is the most widely represented with 60 courses, followed by Scotland (43), Ireland (31), then Spain (23), France (22), Italy (16), Germany (13) and Sweden (13). Concra Wood scored a very commendable 85 points and members have enjoyed commenting on the scores achieved by the other 30 Irish courses and assessing the merits and otherwise of each as against comments made about Concra.

On the club front last week’s competition was won by Daniel McCarthy with 38 points, Michael McEnteggart took Category 1 with 38 points, James King won Category 2 with 38 points while John Keenan won Category 3 with 34 points.

Andy Whelan reports that the Juveniles will play at home against Virginia on Monday with the return leg scheduled for Friday. Last week’s competition winners were 1^st Alan Nugent and 2^nd Joe Carey. It is good also to note the success to date of the very well attended Juvenile Development Programme oganised by Conor McKenna.

Tom McHugh on behalf of the Seniors reports that 18 senior players played on Friday August 5th. With Pat Conlon Brendan Laverty and Tony Carville taking 1^st place and Noel Flanagan, Joe Sheridan and Raymond Kernan taking second. Seniors are asked to note that their next tee time will be at 3.30pm on Thursday 11th August

Finally next weekend’s competition is sponsored by McElvaney Motors.

2nd August 2011

Jason Murphy wins Captain’s prize.

As reported last week, anticipation was high for Robert Heavin’s Captain’s prize weekend. Run over Saturday and Sunday last all expectations were surpassed during what was a simply superb weekend’s golf. As expected, Captain Robert left no stone unturned and his meticulous preparation was rewarded with good golf, good humour and joie de vivre, good food, good winners and a general sense that the club is truly at home in its new setting. Great credit for the success of the weekend is due to Robert and the Heavin family, the club committees, Niall Dignam and his bar staff, John Mc Bride and the course staff and Maria Denny and the catering staff. With scores posted throughout the clubhouse on the TV screens there was nowhere to hide as name and hole by hole returns were posted for all and sundry to see. The leader board was scrutinised throughout the day with many participants delighted with a reprieve from the embarrassment when the screens were changed to show football.

The course had a bit of bite all weekend with wind playing a part on Saturday and a little light rain impacting on play on Sunday. Saturday evening saw Thomas Brennan playing off 12 in pole position with a very respectable 40 points. Adrian Kelly playing off 4 finished two over with 38 points while Carl Malone off 7 also returned 38. With about 50 players still to play on Sunday the event was very much in the balance on Saturday evening. Sunday saw no real change at the top of the leader board with scored in the mid thirties looking like they would qualify. Then word filtered through that one of the Murphys was making a charge on the back nine. No fewer than 5 back nine birdies were reported so the process of elimination as to which Murphy was involved pointed very quickly to Jason. With all eyes fixed on the score screen, Jason’s one under 46 points was met with a round of applause in the bar. There was an element of foregone conclusion as the playoff began. Twenty plus players teed off playing the backnine, however the real focus was on the final group which saw Jason Murphy play alongside Thomas Brennan and Karl Malone. Adrian Kelly in the penultimate group and playing well was also worth following while Eamon Tavey playing off 17 and in spite of been put off his tee shot by a spectator on eleven, the consummate competitor that he is rallied to such an extent that by mid way through the playoff he was also very much a contender. That said, as Jason progressed through the early stages of the extra nine it became clear that the competition was now for second place. Adrian Kelly returned a one under total to become leader in the clubhouse while on the course Karl Malone caused a stir by almost holing out on 14 from the tee. Carl followed this with a birdie on 15, however not to be outdone Jason hit a monster drive over the lake on the par 5 15^th and an eight iron to the green which he duly put to 5 foot. After sinking the putt for an eagle three it was more or less quod erat demonstrandum with three holes to go. Comfortable as the win proved to be, great credit is due to the chasing pack who made Jason earn his title. Credit especially is due to the low handicapped players who proved that to be competitive on the big day does not require the cushion so craved by some. Castleblayney Golf club notes declared itself out of superlatives to describe the progress made by the junior members of the club. That was weeks ago and it is obvious that this progress will continue. The prize winners list read as follows, 1^st Jason Murphy, 2^nd Adrian Kelly, Best Gross Winner Carl Malone, 3^rd, Eamon Tavey, 4^th Michael Smyth, 5^th Niall Dignam, Past Captain, Joe McGrath, Best Senior Noel Flanagan Snr. 1^st Nine Paddy King, 2^nd Nine Padraig McDonald, 3^rd Nine Martin Allen, Committee Prize, Sean Malone, Visitor Paul McArdle, best Juvenile Sean Óg McShane, nearest the pin, Joe Quinn and Longest Drive Raymond McHugh. The Captain Robert Heavin in his address to the members thanked the weekend sponsors Carna Transport for their generous contribution to the event, he thanked the staff at Concra and the various club committees for their hard work. Concluding he thanked the members of his family and in particular his wife Róisín for their continued help and support.

This was a weekend to remember and it would be remiss not to mention and give due credit once again to the excellent catering provided by Maria and her staff and the music maestro himself Paddy King for their contribution to the success of Robert’s Captain’s prize weekend.

Finally newly appointed PRO for the Seniors Tom McHugh reported good progress by Joe Quinn’s JB Carr Team and Sean Mulligan’s Jimmy Carroll team who have made it through to the Ulster Series play off proper. Last week’s Seniors competition winners were Vincent Heavin, Brendan Duffy and Eamon Toal while second place went to Michael McHugh, Raymond Kernan and Larry Coleman. Seniors are also asked to note that the Seniors Tee Time for Friday 5th August is 4pm.

26th July 2011

Anticipation high for Captain’s Weekend.

The most important weekend in the club’s year will take place next weekend with the playing of Robert Heavin’s Captain’s Prize. After the resounding success of Lady Captain Eileen Kerr’s day last Saturday anticipation is high for Robert’s weekend. The course is in pristine condition with the greens at their best. So who will win? There’s a lot of speculation about Ciaran Prunty’s current purple patch of form. Billy Hanna is a recent two time winner and very steady. Carl Malone is also a good bet as is Phil Brannigan. Then there’s Seamus Leonard. Always a bet for a good start. If he could add the finish who knows what might happen. No doubt this event will be organised to the last, the course will no doubt be its normal beautiful self so let’s hope the weather will play its part in what should be a memorable weekend.

It was not a great week on the interclub scene last week with Ciaran Prunty’s Ulster Fourball team exiting at the hands of Letterkenny on Sunday. Niall Dignam’s Treacy Cup team also exited, this time against Co. Cavan.

The Topgolfers Tour visited Concra on Sunday last. This tour is a series of scratch cups played on some of the best courses in Ireland. Open to single handicap players, over one hundred golfers from all over Ireland played for a senior and junior title at Concra. Top golfer on the day was Shane Walsh from Killen GC who returned a 69 shot total including an albatross in the 15^th. Congratulations to Rossmore’s Ronnie Berry who finished in third place with a very commendable 74.

The club competition weekend winner was Paul Carey with 40 points Gary Morgan won Category 1 with 38 points, Category 2 was won by Gareth Mc Mahon with 40 points and Category 3 went to Paul Campbell with 37 points. Members are reminded that the timesheet for the Captains prize is posted in the clubhouse.

Finally for those travelling to the Irish Open this weekend pay a visit to the Concra Wood section of the Fáilte Ireland stand.

20th July 2011

Concra remembers Paul Hill.

The members had an opportunity to mark the passing of one of Castleblayney Golf Club’s most popular members on Friday last with the playing of the Paul Hill Memorial Tournament at Concra. Paul’s popularity was evidenced in the magnificent entry in the competition and in the number of non golfers who turned up on the day to contribute to the Irish Heart Foundation the charity chosen as the recipient of all funds generated by the event. Paul’s friends and members gathered in the clubhouse later that evening for the presentation and some reminiscences on former times when Blayney was blessed to have as gentle a soul as Paul’s numbered amongst its own. As was fitting for the occasion a magnificent score won the event when Moira O’Brien’s 45 points, including a hole in one on the 6^th took the overall winners prize,. Moira was followed by Ciaran Prunty in second and Pauric McDonald in third. The Ladies category was won by Janette Coogan, the First Nine went to Carl Malone and the Second Nine to Johnny Redmond . Congratulations to Niall Dignam, David O’Neill, Bob O’Donnell, Sammy Mc Aree, Joe Bishop, Noel Flanagan Jnr., Keith Hill and everybody who helped make this event the success it was.

The Lady Captain Eileen Kerr sponsored last weekend’s men’s weekend competition and Liam O’Connor returned to the winners enclosure with 39 points winning on the breakdown from Carl Malone who took Category 1 also with 39. Rumours have it that Carl was getting fitted at Conor’s Taylor Made fitting on Monday last so watch this space for more from Carl in the not too distant future. Emmet Brennan continues to improve and took Category Two with 37 points while Category 3 was won by Andy Whelan with 35 points. Thursday of this week is the beginning of a new phase in Andy’s life and the members wish Andy many happy years to enjoy his new found freedom! Members also wish the Lady Captain Eileen every good wish for her Captain’s weekend.

This week’s Juveniles results saw Matthew Byrne take first prize and Gavin Burns take second. A reminder to juveniles and juniors that the Junior Golf Academy began on Wednesday and will continue for the next 5 weeks. Further details are available from Conor or Gavin at the pro shop.

Next Weekend Competition sponsored by A. and M. Commercials for category prizes off the Green Tees

12th July 2011

Mulligan and McNamara inseparable.

It a long time if ever a tied score was reported in the Castleblayney Golf Club notes. Regularly the notes refer to a prize been awarded “on the breakdown”. This means in the event of a tie in an 18 hole stableford competition, the player who has scored the most points on the last 9 holes is the winner. If at this stage the scores are still tied, the player who has scored the most points on the last 6 holes is winner and if the players are still tied at this point then the winner is the one who has scored best over the last 3 holes. If further ties occur it goes down to the last 2 holes, the last hole, then the first 6 holes, then the first 3 holes, then the first 2 holes and finally the first hole!! And if the scores are still, tied joint winners of the competition are declared! That’s what happened last weekend in the McGuigan Motors sponsored competition. Even the computer couldn’t separate Sean Mulligan and Aaron McNamara who both returned 44 points, with 24 each on the back nine, 12 on the last six, 7 on the last three etc. etc. etc. In the end a tie was declared. Category One was won by Phil Brannigan who turned with 25 points and finished with 42, Category Two was won by Emmet Brennan with 40 and category Three was won by Darren Mullen with 36 points.

On the interclub scene Ciaran Prunty’s Ulster Fourball team won three games at home against Letterkenny and have a bit to do next week away from home. It’s not the first time that Ciaran’s team were under pressure and made it through, so no obituaries will be written at this stage.

Club Professional Conor McKenna has announced details for the Concra Wood 2011 Golf Academy which begins on July 20^th. Lessons will include instruction on aim, grip, backswing, follow through and routines, short game, tee shots and course management. Instruction will also include lessons on rules, etiquette, fitness, diet, imagery, goal setting and marking scorecards. The 6 week course is aimed at juveniles and juniors of all abilities and further details and booking forms are available from the pro shop. Members can support the Junior Academy by purchasing a sweepstake in the Majors Sweepstake which runs again this weekend this time in conjunction with the British Open.

Finally next weekends competition is the Lady Captain’s prize for the Men. A reminder also that the timesheet for Captain’s Day will be posted in the clubhouse this weekend.

28th June 2011

Its Jack McMcDonnell again!

Young golfers who want to take the game seriously dream about a run of form like the one currently being experienced by Jack McDonnell. This week his fourteen pars two birdies and two bogeys, level par or 41 points comfortably won the A.I.B. sponsored weekend competition. Jack had two to spare from his Senior Cowdy team mates Carl Malone and Jason Murphy who battled it out for the spoils in Category One. Carl took the honours on a protracted breakdown which went well into the front nine before the two could be separated. Category Two was won by Padraig McDonald with 37 points while Greg Sibley took Category Three with 36 points. On the inter club scene Ciaran Prunty’s Ulster fourball team had a comfortable win over Clones in the 2^nd leg of the 3^rd round at home on Saturday. A win by the team captain Ciaran and Pat McNeill give them the one match that was required. Ciaran’s team will now face Letterkenny in the next round. Other results this week included Franks McDonnells Senior Cowdy team who were beaten by Armagh at home on Thursday and Sean Malones Tudenham Cup team who were beaten by Mullingar on Saturday. For those available, divot repairing will take place on Friday evening next, meeting at 7.30. A presentation of all outstanding prizes will take place on Saturday night July 2^nd at 9.30 p.m. in the clubhouse, all prize winners are expected to attend. Finally next week’s competition is the Colt Design sponsored Golfer of the Year event which will be played off the gold tees.

21st June 2011

Apologies for the gremlins in the dispatches last week. To catch up, the competition played two weeks ago was won by Anthony Keenan with a very impressive 42 points. Category I was a tight affair with Adrian Kelly’s one over par 39 points taking the plaudits from Mickey McHugh’s one over par 39 points on the back nine. Category 2 was won by Philip McCague with 39 points and the Competition Convenor Sean Mulligan took Category 3 also with 39 points.

This week’s competition was the Des McGlynn memorial Cup and the winner was Michael Concannon with 41 points. An excellent score from Michael who is currently very busy helping with the organisation of the Crossmaglen Rangers Classic. Second prize went to Sean Malone who shot 40 points. The Gross was won by the ever improving Ronan McAteer and Declan Smyth was third with 38 points.

Members reminded to complete matchplay fixtures in the Society Cup and the Terencia Carragher Cup. Members are reminded that a presentation of all outstanding prizes will take place on Saturday July 2^nd the list of prizes to be presented will be posted on the noticeboard. Next weekend Competition sponsored by A.I.B and will be played off the green markers. Members are reminded to return all competition cards and with Concra possibly one of the busiest courses in Ireland at present, members are asked to help maintain the course by repairing divots both on the fairways and pitch marks on the greens..

Mixed success was had on the interclub scene this week with Ciaran Prunty and his Ulster four ball team playing their 3^rd round against Clones on Friday last. All matches were won with Ciaran and his team looking forward to the return leg this Friday. For the second time in recent years Martin Carville’s Pierce Purcell team exited the competition at the hands of Killmoon, this game took place in Tandragee. After qualifying for the knock out stages Mickey McHugh’s Junior Cup team lost out to Rossmore in their opening matchplay fixture played at Armagh. Frank Mc Donnell’s Senior Cowdy team played against Armagh last Friday. The young guns represented the club on the night but have a bit to do in the return leg at Concra on Thursday.

A family fun day is to be held at Concra Wood on Sunday 3rd July from 2pm in aid of the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association. This charity, provides assistance to people suffering from pulminory fibrosis and is very close to members at Castleblayney Golf Club as one of the members has a family association with this condition. Members’ support for this worthy cause would be greatly appreciated and the day promises to be fun packed with activities planned for young and old.

Finally the Concra Wood Plc AGM with take place in the clubhouse on Tuesday June 28^th at 7.00 p.m.

7th June 2011

Concra tamed by Kelly and McDonnell

Known locally as Black Friday, the first Friday of each month sees members and visitors take on the challenge of Concra Wood from the championship black tees. Benign as conditions may have been on Friday last, Concra from the blacks is still a sublime test for all golfers. Two club records were set on Friday last when Adrian Kelly and Jack McDonnell shot one over 73 shots in what were Mediterranean type conditions at Concra. An eagle on 7 and a chip in birdie on eighteen helped Jack on his way to his 73 while steady as you go throughout for Adrian Kelly who was probably quite confident on completing his round that his score would hold out on the day. Still he will not begrudge a share of the club course record and first prize to the very promising and inform Jack McDonnell.

Winner of the weekend competition sponsored by the Glencarn Hotel was Pauric Mc Nally with 42 pts. No fewer than 4 birdies totalling 16 points helped Pauric on his way. Another man who found birdies easy to come by was Brian Mc Govern who also had 4. Adrian Kelly made up for his disappointment in being pipped for Fridays competition by winning Category 1 with 38pts. Eager to join his son in the winners enclosure, Aidan Mc Nally took Category 2 with 38pts while John Keenan won Category 3 with 40 pts. Next weekend the competition is for the Clement Mc Kenna Cup members are asked to book as usual on the web. Members are also asked to complete Matchplay fixtures for Society Cup and Terencia Carragher Cups this week.

Next Presentation Night will be Saturday July 2nd when all outstanding Prizes will be distributed.

With the auditors happy to sign off on the annual returns and three year projections completed, the Concra Wood Board of Directors have announced that the AGM will take place on June 28^th at 7.00 p.m. in the clubhouse at Concra. The annual reports were issued this week to shareholders and nominations for elections and motions will be accepted up to and including June 21^st.

31st May 2011

Sealo Buggies work in water.

The impact of interclub fixtures and the wind could be seen on entries in last weekend’s competition. Still David Brohan impressed with an excellent 38 points in difficult conditions and won his first and hopefully his first of many senior competitions at Concra Wood.

Category One was won by the back to form Frank Mc. Donnell with 37pts, category 2 was won by Ciaran Prunty with 36pts while not for the first time this year category 3 was won by Paul Campbell who returned 34pts. Next weekend Competition sponsored by Glencarn Hotel.

On the interclub scene the Ulster Fourball team had a bit more to do than they expected after a comfortable win in Mayobridge the Castleblayney team had their fill of it on the return leg. The banker first team had a poor day in the office and lost, however, wins by team captain Ciaran Prunty and James King 5&4 folowed by Martin Malone and David O’Neill secured a place in the next round for the Blayney team. Rumour has it that one of Ciaran Prunty’s team gave a little too much respect to his more senior opponent and ended eating humble pie afterwards at the after match dinner when an 85 year old gentlemen from Mayobridge recounted his path to victory.

Unfortunately the Junior Cowdy team lost to Mannan Castle in the 2^nd leg on Sunday while the Rossmore Cup team lost their second leg game at home by the narrowest of margins after some club counting mathematics and a little protracted discussion.

On a more positive note Mickey Mc Hugh’s Junior Cup team qualified for the playoff stages in second place after strong performances by the team captain himself, Nudie Hughes, Karl Malone, Jack Mc Donnell and Raymond McHugh. Martin Carville’s Pierce Purcell team continued their winning ways with a win in Clones on Sunday against Enniskillen.

Members are reminded that the Club Classic will take place on Sunday next with the time sheet open in the office and the pro shop.

Finally back to the headline. The shy and pensive Seamus Leonard stood quietly admiring nature and his opponents golf at Mannan on Friday last when his powacaddy trolley took off across the fairway on the 14^th fairway and came to rest in the river. Not for the first time in his career, Seamus had to retrieve a mechanically propelled, however this time, Lazarus like Seamus was able to get this vehicle to go. So Sealo Buggies work in water!

24th May 2011

Carl Malone wins the Club Pro’s Competition.

Some 80 hardy souls braved 4 seasons in one round to compete in the Concra Wood’s PGA Professional Conor McKenna sponsored weekend competition. Conor has, since his arrival at Concra almost a year ago, endeared himself to members and visitors alike and played an invaluable role in the current success of the Concra Wood project. The weather played havoc with scoring over the weekend with only 15 cards returned breaking the 30 point mark. Conor’s competition winner was Carl Malone with all things considered a very impressive 38 points followed by Noel O Reilly who took 2^nd with 35pts.Michael Mc Hugh Jun. won the gross prize while Declan Smyth was 3^rd with 34pts. Conor Mc Kenna will present his prizes next Saturday night in the clubhouse. There will be a prize for the best team score also. Teams will be drawn from returned cards on Saturday night at the presentation function. Only those attending the presentation are eligible for these special prizes. This should be a very enjoyable night with music by the one and only Paddy King. Next weekend the competition is sponsored by Corrigans Kitchen and is for category prizes. On the Juvenile scene, the winner of the Canon Morris Cup was Frank Conlon followed by Hugo Conlon in second. Next Sunday’s juvenile competition is at the later time of 4.50 p.m. The Captain and Vice Captain have called for volunteers to help with the repairing of pitch marks on greens and with the sanding of divots on the fairways on Friday next meeting at 7.30 p.m. at the Pro shop. Finally, regarding the Concra Wood AGM, It is expected that this meeting will take place on Saturday June 26^th at Concra.

17th May 2011

The Mighty Quinn

This headline was previously used for another Quinn, namely Mickey but this week it was Jimmy who took centre stage with a very impressive 44 points in the Shoe City sponsored weekend club competition. Jimmy’s card was returned on Sunday morning and enjoyed by his usual weekend playing partners, Martin Farnan and Aidan Mc Nally. Jimmy’s birdies on nine and sixteen were a big help in puttingtow score and four points together. Category One winner was Edwin Murphy with 39pts, Category 2 was won by Adrian Sewell with 40 pts and Category 3 by Brendan Carragher with 38pts. Winners of the 9 Hole Wednesday evening competition were Brendan Lambe, Brendan Mc. Aleavey and Darren Mullen. The juvenile weekend winners were first James Conlon and second Shane Farrell. Juveniles are reminded that the Canon Morris Cup will be played on Sunday May 22^nd at 3.30 p.m.

On the interclub scene, Seamus Leonard’s All Ireland Mixed team narrowly missed out on qualification at Nuremore on Sunday morning last. Brian Coleman’s Sam Rutherfors team played Down Royal at Concra on Sunday and in spite of Jack Mc Donnell and Phil Brannigan returning two up, Martin Mc Ginn and Karl Malone three up and Ronal McAteer and Billy Hanna finishing all square, Brian’s team still have a two hole deficit to make up away from home next weekend.

Next weekend the competition is sponsored by the club’s PGA professional Conor Mc. Kenna and is a golfer of the year competition off the gold tees. It is hoped that this competition will be well supported. Members are asked to keep free Saturday 28^th May for a special presentation of the prizes for Conor’s competition. There will be music and everyone is guaranteed a good nights entertainment. Finally the second rounds of the club match play competitions are underway at present, members are asked to check notice board for fixtures.

10th May 2011

Martin Allen wins Des Mc Glynn Memorial Cup.

Around the club as lot, Martin Allen is obviously doing more than assisting Sean Donnelly with planting and general landscaping work as his score last weekend shows that a little practice is also taking place. Played off the gold tees with a strong wind adding to the challenge, Martin’s weekend score is among the best carded this year to date. Big hitting Noel Flanagan Jnr. took second with 39 points. Another big hitter Mickey Mc Hugh won the gross with 31 gross points while a similar stableford score i.e. 36 points from Vincent Heavin took third prize.

Congratulations to Martin Carville and his Pierce Purcell team who secured qualification to the Pierce Purcell competition play off stages by finishing third in their qualifier at Enniskillen Golf Club. They will play last Sunday’s hosts in the knock out stages at Clones Golf Club.

For those who purchased sweepstakes in the Junior Golf Academy Sweep, the scores after the Masters were as follows, 19.5 pts Tiger Woods, Luke Donald, 17.5 pts Lee Westwood, 16 pts Rory McIlroy, 15 pts Jim Furyk, 12.5pts Robert Karlsson, Ian Poulter, Phil Mickelson, Matt Kuchar, 9pts Paul Casey, Dustin Johnson, Bubba Watson, 7 pts Nick Watney, 6 pts Ernie Els, 4.5 pts Hunter Mahen, Francesco Molinari, 3 pts Graeme Mc Dowell, 2 pts Retief Goosen, 1pt Martin Kaymer

The club’s Juveniles continue to compete every Sunday at 3.30 p.m. and last weeks results were as follows, first Fergal Burns and second Ryan Smylie.

For the seniors nest week’s competition is sponsored by shoe city and will be played off the green tees. Best of luck also to Seamus Leonard and his all Ireland mixed team who will endeavour to qualify for the knockout stages at Nuremore on Sunday morning next.

3rd May 2011

James is King.

James King has decided that his Junior Cowdy and Ulster Fourball days are in the past and returned his best competitive score to date on Concra Wood. An automatic choice for a number of club teams, James will now have his sights set on mid range handicap teams and no doubt he will be as strong a force to contend with in these competitions as he has proved to be at the higher end of the handicap spectrum thus far. New man to the winners enclosure was Category 1 winner Paudy Kindlon with 37pts. It was a good weekend all round for the Lambe household with Brendan winning Category 2 with 39 points and the Lambe boys playing their part in Monaghan’s victory against Fingall in the hurling championship. Category 3 was won by one of the most determined golfers on Concra, Dermott Brennan who returned 36pts.

Joe Sheridan is currently enjoying a purple patch with two 2^nd places in the last 2 weeks in the Concra Wood open seniors competition. While Charlie McDonnell is on the verge of reducing his handicap to his age after his open singles 43 pts saw Charlie’s handicap reduce to 12.6 from his 19 at the start of year. A twelve year old playing off twelve and lower will no doubt be reported upon soon.

The ever popular Wednesday evening competition is going strong with the early winners in Category 1, Frank Mc Donnell and Carl Malone, in Category 2 Fred Bishop and Greg Duffy and in Category 3 Seamus Leonard and Ted Brennan.

On the interclub scene the Ulster fourball team progressed thanks to wins against Omagh by, team captain Ciaran Prunty and Pat Mc Neill, Patsy Boyle and Martin McCague, Derek Sullivan and James King. With a half match from Joe McGrath and Kevin Maguire, Ronnie and Paddy King were called in with their work almost done. The Ulster Cup exited their competition at the hands of Kilkeel while the Jimmy Bruen team narrowly missed out on qualification the knock out stages at Castle Hume.

The next competition for the juveniles will take place on Sunday next May 8^th at 3.00 p.m. Members are also reminded that there will be a presentation of outstanding prizes next Saturday Night in Clubhouse at 10 p.m. sharp. All prize winners or a representative are expected to attend. Next weekend competition is for the Des Mc Glynn cup and it’s a Golfer of the Year competition off the gold markers.

Finally the odds of an amateur golfer scoring a hole in one in competition is approximately 12,500 to 1 so without doubt it a momentous achievement. But when’s a Hole in One counted as a three? As reported last week the vice captain Noel Gorman recorded his first hole in one on Good Friday. He returned on the following Tuesday to the same tee but unfortunately played his first ball slightly off target and into Lough Muckno. Undeterred Noel reloaded and duly put his provisional into the hole. So a hole in one carded as a 3, what are the odds on that happening?

22nd April 2011

Patrick McEntegart wins Corrigan Coyle, Kennedy and Mac Cormack Prize.

Patrick McEmtegart playing in only his second senior club competition shot a remarkable 45 points to take the Corrigan, Coyle, Kennedy and Mac Cormack sponsored weekend completion. helped along by birdies on 6 and 14 the Category 1 winner was another young gun Ronan Mc Ateer who took Category One with 39 points. The Category 2 winner wouldn’t be so bold as to claim young gun status but the ever young at heart Noel O’Reilly was best in his category with 40 points. Johnny Redmond made a welcome return to the winners enclosure by taking Category 3 with 39 pts.

Shot of the week this week is undoubtedly the Vice Captains ace on 14. Without as much as a bounce the ball landed in the hole on 14 causing, as one can imagine quite animated scenes of jubilation. The Vice Captain anticipated the traditional clubhouse acknowledgement of his achievement, only to remember that his for many, a once in a lifetime feat happened on Good Friday and not if the Pope in Rome had given a dispensation would Noel or his playing partner James King not to mention the customary “one for everyone in the house” get a celebratory imbibe in the clubhouse on Friday last. Tradition is important and Noel decided to follow that other mid Monaghan traditional pilgrimage to Cullaville on Good Friday to partake in his hole in one dues.

Next Weekend competition sponsored by Heineken. Cards may be returned as part of the Una Cunningham Memorial Golf Classic.

Card of the week was returned by Mickey Mc Hugh on Tuesday in the Open Singles event. His one over par 41 points was beaten on the breakdown by Jack McDonnells equally impressive three over. However Jack’s 41 points was three short of the 44 points returned by visiting 20 handicapper Aidan Mc Keown.

Members will see that the draws for the Trencia Carragher and Society Cups are posted on the notice board. The deadline for the first round games is May 11^th and the competitions convenor Sean Mulligan says that that date is sacrosanct and all games must be played by then, no exceptions!Is H

19th April 2011

Hot scoring at Concra.

With the greens still in recovery mode after the hollowing tining and subsequently much slower than usual, it was good to see so many members defy the odds and return a number of high thirty and beyond scores last weekend. First home with a better back nine was Declan Smyth who impressed the Club captain in their fourball on Sunday morning. The Category winners were, Category 1 Gary Morgan with 39 points, Category 2 and in the winners enclosure for the first time as a senior, Sean Denny with 42 points and the Category 3 winner was David O’Neill with 43 points. It’s safe to say that after a performance like that last weekend David will be a Category 2 competitor for the foreseeable future.

Next weekend, the competition is sponsored by Corrigan, Coyle, Kennedy and Mac Cormack, solicitors. This will be played off the Green tees and for category prizes. Also the very popular Wednesday evening 9 hole competition will start next week. The first draw for partners will take place at 5-30 p.m. and everyone is welcome to take part in what was one of the most enjoyable competitions of last summer.

The Handicap Convenor and the Competitions Secretary have asked that members are reminded that it is imperative that all competitive cards are returned and that only those members who intend entering and playing in the club competition should book prime playing slots on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

The Captain reminds members that divot sanding of fairways 5 to 18 will take place on Friday evening next at 7.30 pm and all volunteers are welcome to help out.

On the Junior and Juvenile front, congratulations to Carl Malone on his appointment as Junior Captain for 2011. Carl is wished well in his new role. Junior results for the competition played on Sunday April 17^th, 1^st Junior, Aaron Mc Namara. 1^st juvenile was Ryan Smiley with for the second week in a row second place going to Aaron Smiley. Juvenile convenor Andy Whelan reminds Juniors that a Junior / Juvenile competition will take place each Sunday at 3.00 p.m.

12th April 2011

With placing through the green gone, the sun shining over Muckno, the smell of home cooking from the restaurant, a course and clubhouse full of visitors and the Masters on the TV, all added to a pleasant weekend around Concra. The greens were a little more challenging as a result if the recent hollow tining still scoring at the weekend was respectable with scores in the high 30’s taking the spoils. Last weekend’s Declan Loughman sponsored competition winner was Billy Hanna with 39pts followed by Category 1 winner Des Duffy also with 39pts, Category 2 was won by Charlie McDonnell who returned 38pts while Category 3 was won by Andy Whelan with 39 points. All in all not bad for the first counting competition of the year. Another very enjoyable part of the weekend for members and shareholders was Concra appearing on Setanta’s TV coverage of the Masters.

Next Week’s Competition is sponsored by Car-L-Parts Green Tees and category prizes will be presented. Due to demand on the course over the weekends in particular for those who want toplay nine hole only on a Saturday or Sunday morning they are asked to play the back nine between 8am and 9.30am. It is also imperative that if a member is unable to use their time slots especially at the weekend, that they take their names off the BRS system and leave their time available for other members.

The Inter Club scene has begun and Kieran Prunty’s Ulster Fourball team got off to an excellent start with a great result of 2.5 matches out of 5 in Omagh in the 1^st leg on Sunday last. Wins by team captain Kieran Prunty partnered by Pat Mc Neil and the Ronnie Dignham/Paddy King combination and a half match by Joe Mc Grath and Kevin Maguire sees the Ulster Fourball team with a lot of good ground work done before welcoming Omagh to Concra in the coming week .

Mass for deceased members of Castleblayney Golf Club is on Holy Thursday evening at 8pm

On the Juvenile scene, last week’s results were first prize was won by Ryan Smylie while second went to Aaron Smylie . There will be a weekly competition for juveniles each Sunday at 3.00 pm.

With regards to the Concra Wood AGM, notice regarding this meeting will be issued in the coming weeks.

Finally the club captain, committees and members send their deepest sympathies to Mick Fee and his family on the death of his father.

5th April 2011

Pauric Mc Nally wins Dick Kernan Cup.

Pauric Mc Nally took some time out from helping manage the clubhouse bar to return an impressive 40 points and win the Dick Kernan Cup. Prizes were awarded on a category basis with Category 1 going to Adrian Kelly with 36Pts, Category 2 to Paraic McDonald with 39Pts and Category 3 to Paul Campbell with 36Pts.

Next weekend’s competition is sponsored by Declan Loughman. This will be a counting competition as placing through t he green is now over for the coming season. A reminder also that there will be a presentation on Saturday night starting with the Winter League. The presentation will begin at 9.30 sharp and all prize winners are asked to be in attendance.

Saturday night will also see the draw for the Society Cup and the Trencia Carragher Cup. Entries may be made in the clubhouse during this week.

Juvenile convenor Andy Whelan has announced that there will be a weekly juvenile competition at 3.00 p.m. Juveniles are asked to book a time for this competition by calling the pro shop.

A novel Junior Golf Academy sweepstakes has just been launched to coincide with the beginning of the first major of the year next weekend. To enter simply purchase a sealed sweepstake in the proshop or clubhouse bar which will have the names of three contenders for each of this year’s 4 majors. Points will be awarded to your preselected golfers based on their finishing place in each major. All proceeds from this sweepstake will go towards the Junior Golf Academy at Concra Wood.

28th March 2011

Castleblayney Golf Club lost a good friend on Friday last when Paul Hill passed to his eternal reward. One of the most gentle of souls, Paul or as he was affectionately known Benny, was the epitome of all that was good. He never had a bad word to say about anybody, wore a pleasant smile on his face at all times and simply loved the game of golf and all that went with it. Paul was one of the first young members of the club to become a shareholder in the Concra Wood project. He looked forward to the opening of the course and played on the opening weekend. Poor health impinged on Paul’s ability to play and enjoy the new course, however, he took great pride in the golfing success of his younger brother Keith who Paul introduced to the game at an early age. Keith was part of a Castleblayney team who won the All Ireland series of the Musgrave Rumble and brought great pride to Paul. The Captain, club committees and members send their deepest sympathies to the Hill family on the passing of Paul.

For the last year or so it was more Carl Malone than Martin in the club notes, but with Carl seeking honours in the final of the winter league, Martin took the opportunity to claim top golfer in the household status for this week at least when he carded 42 points in the Gerry McMahon sponsored weekend competition. Even though the handicap convenor Mark Conlon took the scissors to Charlie McDonald after his recent three win exploits, the clubs current top young gun maintained his excellent run of form with a score of 40 points. This took second place. Best gross went to Ciaran Mc. Mahon while Eddie Heavin was third with 40 points, just missing out on second spot on the breakdown. Next weekend’s competition is for the Dick Kernan Cup. It will be played off the green tees and for category prizes.

The final of the Castlecool League is very finely balanced at present with two matches played and both halved, Carl Malone had a half with Gene Mc. Guigan as did the Patsy Boyle/Frank Murray combination against Pat Mc. Neill and Aaron Mc. Namara. So it’s all to play for next week.

The Presentation night due to be held on April 2^nd had to be postponed for one week to Saturday April 9^th due to unavoidable circumstances. The Society Cup and Terencia Carragher Cup will begin shortly. The entry fee is €10. Anybody interested in playing may do so by entering in the clubhouse prior to the draw which will take place on April 9^th.

On the social side, Maria Denny and her staff opened the Restaurant at Concra with a bang on Saturday night with a very enjoyable function in aid of charity. The new restaurant has definitely added to the clubhouse with numbers over the weekend at record levels. The course is also very busy at present and members are asked to help maintain course standards by repairing divots and pitchmarks throughout the course.

22nd March 2011

Charlie makes it three.

Every year the success of at least one junior member of the club dominates the headlines. Recently, Carl Malone, Jack Mc Donnell, Ross Mc Ginn and Ronan Mc Ateer all made the banner line as they staked a claim for due recognition amongst the club’s best senior players. This year Charlie Mc Donnell is making that claim and his excellent 43 points had no fewer than three to spare in the weekend competition seeing Charlie win his third first prize thus far in 2011. Prizes for last weekend were awarded by category and Category One was won by the recently engaged Mickey Mc Hugh who returned an impressive two over or 40 points, Category Two was won by Finbarr Brohan with 38 points while Category Three was won by Bart Mc Namara with 35 points.

The Castlecool Spring League has reached its final stage and will be contested between Carl Malone’s team and Gene Mc Guigan’s team. Team captains play each other in single Matchplay format while all other team members play in normal matchplay format. The handicap allowance is ¾ of the difference with all matches to be completed by Saturday evening April 2^nd. That night will also see the first presentation night of the year. All outstanding prizes will be presented on April 2^nd and out of respect to the club’s generous sponsors all prize winners are expected to attend. The presentation will begin at 9.00 p.m. Next weekend’s Competition is sponsored by Gerry Mc Mahon. This is a golfer of the year qualifier and will be played off the Gold Markers.

As members will by now have noticed, the restaurant at Concra is ready for full opening and operation. Restaurant manager, Maria Denny looks forward to presenting her new restaurant menu to members at the weekend. Club members and shareholders wish Maria every success with this very exciting venture.

8th March 2011

Concra gets thumbs up from Gareth Maybin.

European Tour PGA professional Gareth Maybin played Concra on March 3^rd. Maybin turned professional in 2005 after completing a scholarship at the University of South Alabama. He remained in the United States and competed on the NGA Hooters Tour, where he finished fourth on the money list in his first season. He won two events on the tour between 2005 and 2007, and had several other top ten finishes.

In 2007, Maybin began to receive invitations to Challenge Tour tournaments in Europe, and after a series of strong finishes took up membership of this tour. The following year, he won the Qingdao Golf Open on his way to fourth place on the Challenge Tour money list, which gave him full exemption on the European Tour for 2009.

In his third event on the European Tour, Maybin lost in a playoff at the 2008 South African Open. This runner-up finish elevated him into the top 100 of the Official World Golf Rankings for the first time. Maybin finished the 2010 season in the top 40 on the Race to Dubai.

Maybin also represented Ireland, alongside Michael Hoey at the 2007 Omega Mission Hills World Cup. After his round at Concra, Gareth contacted the Concra Wood professional Conor McKenna to wish Conor well in his new position and to comment on the course. Surmising his experience he stated “ your course was in fantastic condition and greens where some of the best I have putted on in Ireland. Concra has the ability to hold a big event and the scenery was sensational.”

On the club scene, Charlie Mc Donald made it two in a row when he won the Cooltrim Oils competition on Sunday last. Charlie as stated in the club notes last week is intent on a big handicap reduction this year and all his recent practice is definitely paying off. The category prizes were won as follows, Category 1 Winner; Nudie Hughes with 39 pts, Category 2 Winner; Noel O Reilly with 41pts while the Category 3 Winner was Noel’s neighbour Sean Mulligan with 42pts. There was a smile in Sean’s eye on Sunday in the clubhouse as alongside a category prize he won the very important fourball bragging rights against the Quiet One, Séamus Leonard.

The Castlecool Spring League has reached the Semi-Final stage with the pairings as follows, Team 10 V Team 4 and Team11 V Team 12. Team captains play each other in single matchplay format. All other team members play in normal matchplay format. The handicap allowance is ¾ of the difference with all matches to be completed by Sunday evening 20^th March. It is up to team captains to ensure matches are played and on time. Next weekend’s Competition sponsored by Tavey’s Menswear.

Members will by now know that their GUI card may be used for payment in the clubhouse with an additional percentage allocation for monies credited to cards. All twos and vouchers will also be credited to members GUI cards with immediate effect. Non golfing shareholders will be issued with a shareholders pavilion members card which may also be used in the clubhouse.

1st March 2011

Charlie Mc Donald wins Drive in

A beautiful sunny February morning, a piper and champagne on the tee provided an appropriate backdrop to the joint captains’ Drivein on Sunday last. The Lady Captain Eileen made a statement of intent and drove her ceremonial tee shot at least as far as the Captain’s while the youngest senior member of the club, Charlie Mc Donald took the spoils on the day with an excellent 42 points in the first 18 hole competition of the year. Next best was a more established senior Ted Brennan with 40 points who was better on the back nine than Declan Smyth who took third. The first Best Gross of the year was won by Padraig Conlon. In his victory speech Charlie looked forward to losing a few shots this year. After last weekend’s performance it’s only a matter of time till he’s contending for gross prizes.

The Castlecool Spring League continues with very little separating the top teams. Team 10 and 11 are tied for top spot with a further five to six teams are in contention for the other 2 semi final spots. Next weekend is the final round of the competition before the playoff stages. Next week’s league will be played on the front nine. Again 4 scores count but in the event of a tie all scores will count. Also next weekend there is an 18 hole competition sponsored by Cooltrim Oils. Prizes for this will be distributed on a category basis , check noticeboard for details. This is also the last chance for members to support the Cystic Fibrosis Appeal entry €5.

Remember that Niall Dignam is organising a Texas Holdem tournament in the clubhouse on Friday March 4^th. Niall promises an array of prizes as well as refreshments and even a lift home for those who need one.

21st February 2011

Gene’s team 10 move one ahead.

Twenty points from team captain Gene Mc Guigan with eighteen each from Club vice captain Noel Gorman and Frank Murray with Joe Kelly returning the fourth counting score saw team 10 take a one point lead into week three ahead of Carl Malone’s team. Thanks to second best score of the week, 21 points from Eamon Tavey, and 20 points from Pat Mc Neill with Aaron Mc Namara and Carl Malone adding to the total Carl’s team move into second place.

Best score this week was returned by David O’Neill with an excellent 22 points. Next best was the aforementioned Eamon Tavey with 21 points followed by Pat Mc Neill, Gene Mc Guigan, Martin Carville, Gene Mc Guigan, Noel Flanagan Jnr. and Nudie Hughes all with 20 points.

The head greenkeeper John Mc Bride has asked members to be particularly vigilant in helping maintain the greens. With visitor numbers increasing, it is imperative that all members make an effort to repair as many pitchmarks as possible on all greens. Members are also asked to be particularly vigilant with regard to the replacing of divots throughout the course.

Clubhouse manager Niall Dignam is currently working on a cashless payments system for the clubhouse. This will see members able to use their GUI membership card as a debit card which may be used for all payments in the clubhouse. Vouchers previously presented to members as prizes will be added to members’ accounts and members with other vouchers i.e. presents etc. are asked to contact the office for further information as to how to redeem these vouchers.

Sunday next will see the official beginning of the club captains’ term in office. It goes without saying that both Captain Robert and Lady Captain Eileen have already completed a significant amount of work in preparation for the year. Thanks to Robert and Eileen, committees and sub committees are in place, team captains and convenors selected, new Concra Wood initiatives have been proposed, initiated and already adding to the company profile. With Robert and Eileen at the helm, the club and Plc can look forward to further dynamism as the year progresses. The Drive in itself will take place at 11.00 am with a draw at 10.40 am and will be followed at 6.00 p.m. with refreshments in the clubhouse. Entertainment for the event will be provided by the one and only Paddy King.

Conor Mc Kenna reminds shareholders and members that a taster day will take place on Friday February 25^th. A large number of participants have registered their interest in the event so members are asked to contact Conor with the names of any other interested attendees.

A Texas Holdem tournament will take place in the clubhouse on March 4^th. It has all the hallmarks of a typically well organised clubhouse event with refreshments and a taxi service available for all participants.

Finally members are reminded that a fundraising eighteen hole event in aid of cystic fibrosis is running in conjunction with the Castlecool League.

7th February 2011

Castlecool Spring League begins next weekend.

The long awaited Castlecool Spring League will begin next weekend after the draw for teams which will take place tonight Thursday. With entry numbers as usual expected to be very high there will be a new format in play this year. With the four best scores out of seven to count each week the competition will be more open than ever with the playoff stages promising to be very exciting. On the social front clubhouse manager Niall Dignam has announced plans for a Valentines dance in the clubhouse on Saturday night the 12^th of February. Music will be provided by Dermot Morgan with food and a taxi service available it promises to be an excellent night. Texas Holdem will continue on Friday nights with the first deal at 9.00 p.m. A shark who pretended never to have played Texas Holdem before took the spoils last weekend. Nobody will fall for his innocence next week. Contact Niall for further details regarding Friday and Saturday nights entertainment.

As stated last week the Directors are delighted with the response to date to the new family share offer. Shareholders will be contacted in the coming days with further detail on this offer. PGA professional Conor Mc Kenna will continue with his taster days on Fridays in February. Shareholders and members are welcome to invite guests to the course and clubhouse for the taster days. Contact Conor for further details at the proshop. Speaking of the proshop, those who have logged onto the Concra website or Conor’s Facebook page, will have read that a new range of equipment and clothing for the new season will be available in the shop from this weekend.

1st February 2011

Frost prevents golf again!

As a result of yet another cancellation of play last weekend, this week’s notes could be a cut and paste job from last week’s but that would be unfair to the shareholders who attended what was one of the most positive and productive Concra Wood shareholders meetings for some time. This shareholders meeting, convened for Sunday last saw the Board of Directors outlined feedback from last November’s information meetings to shareholders and brought some suggestions to the meeting to help progress the project at Concra. The Board also brought shareholders up to date on the current financial position of the Company and on the impact of the recent inclement weather on the project. After some discussion and ideas from the floor, the meeting agreed to proceed with a number of fundraising proposals including the launch of a competitively priced share offer for family members of current shareholders. Quite remarkably in the current economic climate a significant number of these shares was sold or committed to at the end of the meeting which should be very heartening to the Board and shareholders. The mood of the meeting was one of shareholders taking ownership of their project and an obvious enthusiasm from those present to see the Concra Wood project reinvigorated after a difficult winter and progress even further into the future. On the general theme of progress, final arrangements for the opening of the restaurant at Concra are currently taking place and a formal announcement with regards to a new manager will be made soon. This will see another piece in the jigsaw fall into place and will be a much welcomed asset to the clubhouse. Competitions convenor Sean Mulligan has announced that arrangements for last week will stand this weekend with entries for the spring league taken again this weekend. Remember that Concra’s PGA Professional Conor McKenna is organising taster days for new members in February and shareholders are asked to invite guests to attend. Finally as of last weekend, there will be a total ban on card games played in the clubhouse unless officially organised by clubhouse management.

24th January 2011

Last Week of Winter League

The final week of this year’s long running Winter League will take place next weekend with all four scores to count playing the front 9. Members will be delighted to say slán to this league and look forward to the beginning of the Spring League which will begin in two weeks time. Entries will be taken this weekend and next week in the clubhouse.

Members and shareholders were delighted to see an end to the lunar landscape which served as the main entrance which welcomed patrons to Concra. The new road entrance and improved surface to the clubhouse has already improved first impressions and will be welcomed by members cars in particular. It is hoped that some landscaping work will begin in this area shortly. It is hooped also to see work commence on a buggy path down the 10^th. This will allow greater access to the course for buggy users.

Shareholders are reminded that an important meeting of shareholders will take place in the clubhouse on Sunday. This meeting is a follow on to the information meetings held in November. Shareholders are asked to attend this event as important information will be made available and a number of items are up for discussion.

Shareholders will also be delighted to hear that an important announcement with regards to the restaurant is imminent and will add in no small way to the clubhouse and the project generally.

17th January 2011

New Year– New Committee.

Saturday last was too wet but for the most intrepid of golfers and as a result the course was packed on Sunday. Considering the conditions on the days previous it was delightful to see how well the course stood up to the test. Members may remember the Christmas league, well that is now the Winter League and will next week see the playing of week four and off the back tees.

Captain Robert Heavin announced his cabinet for the coming year with new ministers appointed to new portfolios.

The Greens Committee will be made up of Martin Carville – Convenor, Brian Coleman and Adrian Kelly

Bar & Social, Martin Malone – Convenor, Seamus Leonard, Gareth McMahon, and Noel Gorman.

Competitions, Sean Mulligan – Convenor, Sean Malone, Gareth Mc Mahon, Seamus Leonard and Noel Gorman

Handicaps, Mark Conlon – Convenor, Martin Carville and Andy Whelan.

Youth Development, Andy Whelan – Convenor, Noel Gorman, Frank Murray and Martin Allen. PRO, Raymond Mc Hugh.

Finally shareholders are reminded that a very important meeting of shareholders will take place on Sunday January 30^th at 5.00 p.m. in the clubhouse.

10th January 2011

New Year in with aplomb at Concra Wood.

Style was the order of the night on New Year’s Eve at Concra Wood when shareholders, members and guests filled the clubhouse to capacity to welcome in the New Year. Bar manager Niall Dignam, his staff and ably assisted by Maria Denny had the clubhouse resplendently decorated for the occasion. Niall’s usual friendly welcome set the tone for the night with music provided by Kelly Redmond, Butch Mc Neill, Darren Murphy and Mickey Mc Hugh. The band for the night was assisted by Kieran Finlay, Ciaran Prunty and Thomas Brennan who played support and also helped fill the dance floor. In all it was an excellent evening and a fitting first New Year’s celebration in the new clubhouse.

Due to the inclement weather, golf was to a minimum over the festive season with the course available for play on only a handful of occasions. Club Pro. Conor Mc Kenna has devised a new format for play to allow golfers play next weekend if the weather remains unkind to golfers. Further details will be available in the clubhouse. Conor is also finalising details for taster days for potential new members at Concra again further details are available at the clubhouse.

Club members are reminded that all outstanding membership is now due. The Captain Robert and his committee would like to thank members who paid their membership over the Christmas period.

Finally the Board of Directors will hold a general meeting for shareholders on Saturday January 29^th in the clubhouse. This meeting is a follow up on the shareholder information meetings held in November and will bring shareholders up to date on important and current developments at Concra.

Click on date below to read notes