We hope for light at the end of the tunnel
On Tuesday, February 23 golfers everywhere watched the six o’clock news fearing the worst but hoping for the best. Alas the news wasn’t good, and we are facing an extended lockdown and no prospect of us getting back to the fairways until early April at the earliest.
This was met with considerable but not unexpected disappointment. While we all understand that the spread of the virus must be brought under control, life in lockdown is certainly taking its toll on people’s mental health. The present environment is stressful for all, but the social isolation associated with it is particularly difficult for those who live on their own, and for whom golf is a wonderful outlet. We can only hope An Taoiseach Mr Martin’s words “There is light at the end of the tunnel” ring true and that this lockdown will be the last.
PHOTOGRAPH FROM PAST TIMES
The lockdown is certainly allowing plenty of time for rummaging through the archives and this week’s photograph was taken at lady captain Ellen O’Mahony’s prize in 1978. The winner on the day was Liz Cronin who has sadly passed away, as have several of the other ladies in the photo. But it’s lovely that quite a number are active members and play regularly both in the weekly competition and with senior ladies on Thursday mornings. Ellen herself, a fine golfer, was a regular contender for the gross prize while a member of Fermoy. This year’s president Niall Cremen joined Fermoy in the early eighties and on his first evening attending the Friday night mixed foursomes had the good fortune of being drawn with Ellen. They came first on the night and each received a lovely piece of pottery, this was the first golf prize our president won.
Some years later Ellen moved to West Cork where she continues to reside, but she still retains close ties with Fermoy as her daughter Geraldine and family live here.
GOLF IRELAND AGM
On Saturday last the first AGM of Golf Ireland took place virtually with over 900 in attendance. Golf Ireland as every golfer is aware by now replaces the GUI and ILGU, all those who made speeches on Saturday referred to the three key sentiments which are at the core of the new governing body, diversity, inclusivity and equality. The first full board of directors was ratified and it’s wonderful to note that of the thirteen board members six are women.
One of the new directors is Barry Lynch, a member of Rafeen Creek GC. Barry is known to many in Fermoy GC as he was very involved with the GUI both in regard to handicapping, course rating, rules and championships. All in Fermoy send their best wishes to Barry and all the other directors as they take up their new positions.
COVID-19
We encourage all our members to follow the guidelines as requested by NPHET, doing so will greatly improve our chances of returning to the fairways. Stay safe everyone.