TIME TO GET INTO GOLF

There’s never been a better time to tee off and enjoy the many benefits of the game. By Brian Keogh

GOLF is the game on everyone’s lips at this time of year. The Masters whets the appetite like no other tournament and as the days stretch to capture more sunlight an old urge returns.

The fairways are filling again. That midweek escape – nine holes before nightfall – is the thought that gets you through another routine working day.

Golf is the game that never lets you grow old. And there’s never been a better time to get into golf.

Clubs across Ireland are keen to recruit new members and the Confederation of Golf in Ireland (CGI) have established ‘Get into Golf’ programmes for people who want to get started.

The Get into Golf programme provides an opportunity to try the game in a fun and friendly environment. These programmes are cost-effective and flexible, enabling you to make the most of the time you have available.

The cost ranges from €40-80 and all clubs running Get into Golf programmes offer introductory membership ranging from €150-300.

Most clubs operate a golf club lending scheme to help you get started. A player’s initial experiences on the golf course can be daunting but with support and guidance from a current member you can enjoy the challenge, practice your new skills and learn about the course.

Joining a golf club can be unnerving, especially if you have no prior links with the club. Go along to a session that your club has arranged for new members and you’ll find that these are usually fun, social occasions to make new members feel at ease and can link you with a point of contact in the club.

This person can help you with any queries relating to the fundamentals of golf club membership, such as club rules, etiquette, competition formats and general procedures, and can be a great resource during your first year of membership.