Killarney (Killeen)

If you’re looking for golf that is both challenging and fun in a spectacularly beautiful and serene setting, Killarney Golf and Fishing Club has it all. Situated on the northern shores of Lough Leane, this easywalking, lush parkland layout is overlooked by Macgillycuddy’s Reeks,

Ireland’s most prominent mountain range which includes Carrauntoohil, the country’s highest peak at 3,407 feet.

There are three courses here – 45 holes in total – but the championshipstandard Killeen takes pride of place. This parkland design sets off at a dizzying pace, with three of the opening four holes hugging the water’s edge. The views are sensational and it’s easy to be distracted, but the course is a fine test all the way. Although you head away from the lough at the 5th, water comes into play on the majority of holes, especially when you make a brief return to the shore at the pretty 10th.

History

Golf has been played at Killarney since the 1890s, and the Mahony’s Point course was designed by Guy Campbell and opened for play just before World War II. As the demand for golf grew, the prodigious Eddie Hackett was commissioned along with Billy O’sullivan to design the Killeen course. This involved a reworking of the original course, following which Donald Steel and then Mackenzie & Ebert were involved in further upgrades and enhancements. The course has staged many top-level tournaments, including four Irish Opens.

Signature holes

There are plenty of memorable and extremely photogenic holes on the Killeen course, with two of the best very neatly bookending the round. The 1st is a terrific dogleg running from left to right played from a runway tee with water on either side. The lough laps up along the shore every inch of the way, meaning maximum concentration is needed from the off.

The closing hole is a very demanding par 4 entirely befitting the climax of a championship. This time the water hugs the left in the form of a substantial ditch, with a trio of bunkers awaiting anything too safe on the other side. The water widens on the approach, leading to a thrilling and nerve- racking conclusion.

What are your favourite courses in the Golf Top 100?

Monthly

Luke Standish, Exeter

I honestly believe that the rankings reflect a democratic and balanced view and are a trustworthy list. However, we all enjoy different things, and while I love playing links regularly, I would probably look elsewhere. I will be greedy and go for both Sunningdales, and then for something thrilling and full of wow-factor, I would go back to Old Head when the sun is shining.

Peter King

Member at Blackmoor GC, Hampshire for 74 years

What do you like so much about Blackmoor?

Having played golf an estimated 7,000 times at beautiful and peaceful Blackmoor and on 120 other courses, my high opinion of Blackmoor is based on the following: every hole is cleverly designed to make you think; it’s not too hilly or long; and it is kept to very high standards. I was born just two miles away and now live nine miles away. My journey is against the flow of traffic, so what could be better?

What have been the highlights of your playing ‘career’?

I went round in a gross 68 when I was 68 years old, and have had three hole in ones. But more important are the long friendships with like-minded golfers.