Portmarnock Golf Club occupies a natural links on a sandy peninsula, originally recognized for its golfing potential by William Pickeman and George Ross in 1893. The land, owned by distiller John Jameson since 1850, initially hosted a private nine-hole course before Scotsman Mungo Park expanded it to eighteen holes by 1896. Pickeman, pivotal in its development, later designed other Irish courses.
Stretching nearly 7,500 yards from its back tees, Portmarnock is renowned for fairness despite its challenges, notably the ever-changing winds from its seaside setting. Divided into two nine-hole loops, it offers panoramic views including Ireland’s Eye and the Mountains of Mourne. Its greens, lauded for their speed and precision, add to its reputation as a formidable test of putting skill.
Portmarnock’s championship pedigree includes hosting the Irish Open numerous times, the Canada Cup, and the Walker Cup. The closing stretch, particularly holes 14 to 18, is revered for its difficulty, where precision is paramount amidst narrow fairways and well-placed bunkers. Notable moments include amateur Joe Carr’s legendary hole-in-one on the 385-yard 14th, and Ian Woosnam’s dramatic recovery during the 1988 Irish Open, showcasing the course’s strategic challenges and memorable moments in golf history.
In 1971, Fred Hawtree expanded Portmarnock with a third nine (Yellow), complementing the Championship layout (Red and Blue nines). Martin Hawtree’s subsequent renovations ahead of the 2003 Irish Open enhanced the course, emphasising strategic enhancements and maintaining its status among Ireland’s premier golfing destinations.
