Kilkenny golf club Kilkenny

Members Achievements

Mark Power was selected on the 10-man team that represent GB & Ireland against the US in the 49th Walker Cup Matches at the Old Course St. Andrew’s on Saturday 2th September and 3rd September 2023.
The Other Irish on the were Alex Maguire (Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club) Liam Nolan (Galway Golf Club) and Matthew McClean (Malone Golf Club) they lost the match by 14½-matches to 11½-matches. Mark secured 3-points for the team and now he joins the professional ranks.  

Mark Power was selected on the 19-man squad to represent GB & Ireland against the US in the 49th Walker Cup Matches at the Old Course St. Andrew’s on Saturday 2nd and 3rd September 2023.
The other Irish on the squad are Robert Moran (Castle Golf Club), Hugh Foley (The Royal Dublin Golf Club), Matthew McClean (Malone Golf Club), Liam Nolan (Galway Golf Club) and Peter O’Keeffe (Douglas Golf Club) they were Captained by Stuart Wilson.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club reached the All-Ireland Semi-Finals of the Women’s All-Ireland Final in the Irish Senior Cup at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club on Sunday 10th September 2023 when they went down to Royal Portrush Golf Club by 3½-matches to 1½-matches.
In the top match Jan Browne had a 2 and 1 win against Lucy Simpson, she was followed by Orla Dunphy who went down by 3 and 1 against Gemma McMeekin, next on the tee was Eileen Rose Power who lost her match against Amy O'Donnell by 3 and 2, in the penultimate match Mary Leahy-Browne lost her match by 5 and 4 against Judithe Allen and in the bottom  match Mary Dowling halved her match against Hannah Lee-McNamara. Royal Portrush went on to win the Green pennant against Co. Sligo in the afternoon.
They met the Ladies from Lahinch Golf Club the previous day and had a comfortable 4-matches to 1-match win against Co. Clare Club.
They were led out by Jan Browne who won her match by 2-up against Chloe Ryan, next on the tee was Eileen Rose Power who had another 2-up win against Sarah Cunningham, the next two matches of Orla Dunphy against Olivia Lucas and Mary Leahy-Browne against Miriam Abernethy were halved when called-in and in the bottom match Mary Dowling had a run-away 8 and 7 win against Jenny Hennessy.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club were Runners-Up in the Regional Final of the Leinster Central Women’s Senior Foursomes on Sunday 13th August 2023 at Rathsallagh Golf Club when they went down to Royal Curragh Golf Club by 2-matches to 1-match.

The Girls’ from Kilkenny Golf Club reached the All-Ireland Quarter-Final of the Girls’ Inter-Club Championship on Tuesday 29th August at Castletroy Golf Club when they lost out to Doneraile Golf Club by 2½-matches to ½-match.
In the top match Olivia Dunphy (22) lost her match against Daire Power (22) by 6 and 5, she was followed by Grace Corbett (38) who went down by 3 and 1 against Eileen Sheehan (37) and the bottom match of Laura Rice (44) against Danielle Sheehan (45) was recorded as a halve.

Jan Browne was selected on the Leinster Women’s Interprovincial Championship team at Moyvalley Golf Club from Tuesday 29th August to Thursday 31st August 2023.
Other members of the team were Rachel McDonnell (Elm Park Golf Club), Mary Dowling (New Ross Golf Club), Anna Abom (Edmondstown Golf Club), Jenny Maguire (Foxrock Golf Club), Ellen O'Gorman (Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club) and Ellen O'Shaughnessy (Co. Louth Golf Club).
They were Captained by Una Marsden (Tullamore Golf Club) and Managed by Orla Darcy (Naas Golf Club).

Mark Power was, selected on the 2023 Golf Ireland Men’s High Performance Squad.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club qualified for the All-Ireland Quarter-Final of the Irish Senior Foursomes at Slieve Russell Golf Club on Saturday 10th September 2022 and lost their match against Elm Park Golf Club by 2½-matches to ½-match.
Mary Leahy-Browne with Mary O’Shea lost the top match by 4 and 3 against Jane Conan with Joanna Dunne, the match between Rose Eileen Power with Niamh Spratt was halved against Mary McKenna with Sophie Moore when called-in and in the bottom match Sarah Molloy with Mary Norton went 4 and 3 to Rachael McDonnell with Elaine Corcoran from the South Dublin Club.

Mark Power was selected on the Irish Team to play in the European Team Championships at Royal St. George’s, England from 5th to 9th July 2022, the others on the squad were Rob Moran (Castle Golf Club), Hugh Foley (The Royal Dublin Golf Club), Matt McClean (Malone Golf Club), Liam Nolan (Galway Golf Club) and Caolan Rafferty (Dundalk Golf Club) they coached by Michael Collins, managed by John McKinstry from Cairndhu Golf Club and captained by Niall Mac Sweeney from Athenry Golf Club.

Mark Power was selected on the Irish Team for the Home Internationals to be played at Ballyliffin Golf Club on 3rd to 5th August 2022, the other members on the squad were Robert Brazill (Naas Golf Club), Colm Campbell (Warrenpoint Golf Club), Rob Moran (Castle Golf Club), Hugh Foley (The Royal Dulin Golf Club), Matt McClean (Malone Golf Club), Liam Nolan (Galway Golf Club), Peter O’Keeffe (Douglas Golf Club) and Caolan Rafferty (Dundalk Golf Club) they were coached by Michael Collins, managed by John McKinstry from Cairndhu Golf Club and captained by Niall Mac Sweeney from Athenry Golf Club.

Mark Power was selected on the Golf Ireland Men’s High Performance Squad for 2022.

Kilkenny Golf Club won their First Leinster Irish Junior Cup at Millicent Golf Club on Monday 7th June 2021 when they beat Courtown Golf Club in the Final by 3-matches to 2-matches with the destination of the pennant being decided on the 19th in the bottom match when Simon Cullen clinched the winning point.
The team on the day was Alan O’Rourke, Brendan Downing, Sam Dunlop, Simon Cullen and Richie Guilfoyle the reserves were John Maher and Liam O’Hara they were managed by Luke Kelly & Aidan McDonald.
They made their way to Donegal Golf Club to compete in the All-Ireland 2020 deciders, which had been delayed due to Covid-19 on the Thursday morning 10th June 2021. They met Ulster Champions Balmoral Golf Club and had a relatively easy win.
Alan O’Rourke won his match 5 and 4, Brendan Dowling was all square on 14th when called in Sam Dunlop and Simon Cullen had convincing 7 and 6 wins and Simon Cullen won 7/6 Richie Guilfoyle 4 up on 13th when called in.
They beat Connacht Champions Ballinasloe in the All-Ireland Final.

Mary Murphy & Mags Duggan won the Ladies All Ireland Granard Cup Winners 2021 in Balbriggan Golf Club.

Mark Power was selected to represent Ireland in the European Amateur Team Championships at PGA Catalunya, Spain from 6th to 10th July 2021 the other members of the squad were Marc Boucher (Carton House Golf Club), Robert Moran (Castle Golf Club), Hugh Foley (The Royal Dublin Golf Club), Matt McClean (Malone Golf Club) and Caolan Rafferty (Dundalk Golf Club) they were managed by John McKinstry from Cairndhu Golf Club and captained by John Carroll from Bandon Golf Club.

The Ladies of Kilkenny won the Mid-Leinster Final of the Irish Senior Cup at Courtown Golf Club on 19th May 2019. They beat the ladies from Tullamore Golf Club by 4-matches to 1-match in the Provincial Quarter-Final and Wexford Golf Club by a similar score in the Semi-Final.
They met The Heath Golf Club in the decider and recorded a 3 ½-matches to 1 ½-matches against the ladies from Co. Laois. They were lead out by Mary Dowling who halved her match against Maedhbh Doyle, she was followed by Orla Dumphy who had a 5 and 3 win over Molly Dowling, next on the tee was Jan Browne against Mary Doyle who won her match by 3 and 1, in the penultimate match Sarah Molloy went down by 5 and 4 in her match against Catherine Reilly and the bottom match Mary Leahy-Browne secured their place in the All-Ireland Deciders with a comfortable 7 and 5 win over Mary Culliton.
They made their way to Killarney Golf Club where they were drawn against the home team on the Killeen Course in the All-Ireland Quarter-Finals and a bit like their hurlers had a bad day in-the-office when going down by 5-matches to 0-matches against the Kerry ladies. Thy were lead out again by Mary Dowling who lost her match against Mairead Martin by 6 and 4, she was followed by  Jan Browne who went down by 4 and 2 to Kelly Brotherton, next on the tee was Mary Leahy-Browne who lost out to Tracy Eakin by 6 and 5, in the penultimate match Sarah Molloy lost to Mary Sheehy by 4 and 3 and in the bottom match Anne Smee lost by 6 and 4 against Corrina Griffin.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won the Mid Leinster Final of the Senior Foursomes when they beat The Heath Golf Club by 2-matches to 1-match at Tullamore Golf Club on Saturday 1st September 2018.

First on the tee was Sarah Molloy (5) with Bridie McGarry (9) lost their match by 1-hole against Catherine Reilly (5) with Mary Culliton (11), next on the tee was Jan Browne (3) with Breeda Roche (13) who beat Mary Doyle (2) with Pat Lambe (15) and the bottom match of Ann Geoghegan (4) with Eva Duggan (13) went up the 19th against Maedhbh Doyle (0) with Sadie Ging (19) before the point was secured.

They made their way to Knightsbrook Hotel & Golf Resort to participate in the All-Ireland Deciders where they met East Leinster Champions Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club in the All-Ireland Semi-Final on Thursday 27th September and went down by 2½ -matches to ½ -match against the ladies from the Royal County.

They were led out again by Sarah Molloy with Bridie McGarry who lost their match against Carol Wickham with Marita Leech by 3 and 2, the middle match Ann Geoghegan with Eva Duggan was recorded as a halve against Vivienne Branigan with Eleanor Metcalfe when called-in and the bottom match Margaret Cuddihy with Mary Norton was a resounding win for Barbara Cooney with Aimee Wickham when recorded as a 6 and 5 win for the ladies from North Meat. Laytown & Bettystown went on and won the green pennant the following day when the beat Roscommon by 2-matches to 1-match.

Mark Power was awarded the Under-21 Leinster GUI Golfer’s Order of Merit in 2018.

I don’t know what it is about Kilkenny but they seem to hand down their talents from generation to generation what with the Larkin’s having won All-Irelands over three generations as an example.

We now have young Mark Power winning the Irish Boy’s Championship in 2016 and again in 2017 when he pitched in from 129 yd’s on the 3rd Play-Off hole at Casletroy Golf Club to beat Jack Cope from England to become the second boy to retain the Championship since Paul Dunne from Greystones Golf Club did it at Bangor and Dungarvan in 2008 and 209.

Mark is the son of Eileen Rose-Power and Eddie Power both of whom have played International golf for their country. Mark at 17-years old is in a position to make it three-in-a-row next year, is on the Leinster Senior Team and knocking on the door of the Senior Panel. Can Mark be our next Rory, Padraig or Graeme??   

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won the Mid Leinster Final of the Senior Foursomes when they beat Royal Curragh Golf Club by 2 ½-matches to a ½-match at the Wexford Golf Club on Saturday 27th August 2016.

First on the tee was Orla Dunphy with Phil Doyle who recorded a halve against Regina Foley with Mary O'Meara, they were followed by Sarah Molloy with Jan Browne who had a 4 and 3 win over Caroline Condon with Joan Nordlokken in the bottom match K atie Aherne with Mary Norton had a very comfortable 7 and 6 win over Marie Egan with Marie Sheridan.

They made their way to Dundalk Golf Club to compete in the All-Ireland Deciders and drew East Leinster Champions Milltown Golf Club in the All-Ireland Quarter-Final. This time they were led out by Ann Smee with Dervilla O'Byrne who won their match 5 and 4 against Deirdre Walsh with Lydia Ensor they were followed by Sarah Molloy with Jan Browne who had a 2 and 1 win over Anne-Marie Poweell with Sarah Brophy, in the bottom match Mary Leahy with Phyl Doyle lost their match against Ann-Marie Dalton with Mary Logue by 7 and 5.  

They met Ulster Champions Royal Portrush the following day in the All-Ireland Semi-Final they were led out again by Ann Smee with Dervilla O'Byrne but lost their match against Helen Jones with Heidi Simpson by 2 and 1, Sarah Molloy with Jan Browne had a comfortable 6 and 4 win over Moyra McElderry with Nicky Smyth, in the bottom match Mary Leahy with Phyl Doyle came close to booking their place in the All-Ireland Final but lost to Vivienne Houston with Shauna Park by 1-hole.

The boys’ from Kilkenny won the Leinster Final of the Fred Daly Trophy in 2016 and made their way to Galway Golf Club to defend their title won at Moyola Park in 2015.
They came up against a strong Limerick Golf Club team who were the eventual winners in the All-Ireland Semi-Finals in the morning.

First on the tee was Harry Duggan who lost his match against Sean Enright playing off (1) by 2 and 1 next up was Kevin Power who went down to Ciaran Vaughan by 4 and 2 both playing off (2) he was followed by Jeff Kealy (4) who halved his match against Luke O’Brien (3), Richard Duggan (5) also halved his match against Morgan Hanley (4) in the bottom match James Everard (6) lost out to Ross Fitzgerald (5) by 4 and 3.
My old friend J. D. Murphy would be very proud of the continued success of the young men from Kilkenny Golf Club to whom he gave so much of his time and energy to over the years. I trust there are some fantastic golf courses wherever he may be now, may he rest in peace.

Kilkenny Golf Club won the All-Ireland Fred Daly Trophy at Moyola Park Golf Club on Tuesday 25th August 2015 when they beat Ulster Champions Tandragree Golf Club by 4½-matches to 2½-matches.
First on the tee was Mark Power who lost his match against William Small on the 19th he was followed by Luke Donnelly who also lost against David Cunningham by 1-hole, next up was Evin Power who beat Jake Rowe by 2-holes he was followed by Brian Crowdle who had a 2 and 1 win over beat Edward Rowe, next up was Harry Duggan who beat Peter Taylor by 5 and 4 in the penultimate match Richard Duggan halved his match against Cameron Fox in the bottom match Jeff Kealy had a 3 and 2 win over beat Jordan McKenzie.
They met Connaught Champions Co. Sligo Golf Club in the All-Ireland Semi-Final first on the tee was Mark Power who lost his match against David Brady by 4 and 3 he was followed by Luke Donnelly who had a comfortable 5 and 4 win over T. J. Ford, next up was Kevin Power who lost his match against Cian Feeney by 4 and 3, he was followed by Brian Crowdle who had a 4 and 3 win against Tom O’Hara next up was Harry Duggan who beat Conor Wynne by 3 and 2, in the penultimate match Richard Duggan beat Joseph Keyes by 2 and 1, in the bottom match Shane Mahony lost his match against Paddy Bird by 4 and 3.
I have always maintained that good hurlers make good golfers and wonder how many of these young men either played hurling or are still playing the wonderful game.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won the Mid Leinster Final of the Irish Senior Cup at Carlow Golf Club on Sunday 11th May 2014.
They met the Ladies from The Heath Golf Club in the First Round and recorded a 3-match to 2-match over the Co. Laois Club, in Round 2 they were drawn against Royal Curragh and had a comfortable 4½ matches to ½ match over the Kildare Club, in the Semi-Final they were drawn against the home club when things got closer and with a 3-matches to 2-matches result.
They met the Ladies from Enniscorthy Golf Club in the decider and were led by Mary Dowling who had a 1-hole win over Aisling O’Leary, she was followed by Mary Leahy-Browne who lost her match against Nicola King by 4 and 2, she was followed by Orla Dunphy who had a 3 and 2 win over Sorcha Howell, in the penultimate match Katie Aherne had a comfortable 4 and 3 win over Ciara Sharkey, the bottom match of Ann Smee against Jennifer King was halved when called in, so Kilkenny collected the pennant and with it a place in the All-Ireland Decider at Mount Wolseley Golf Club on 15-16 August.

The were drawn against Enniscorthy again in the All-Ireland Quarter-Finals on the Friday morning and were led out by Mary Dowling who won her match against Aisling O'Leary by 3 and 2, she was followed by Mary Leahy-Browne who halved her match against Nicola King, next on the tee was Orla Dunphy who won her match against Ciara Sharkey by 3 and 2, the penultimate match of Katie Aherne saw the Kilkenny team over the line with a convincing 6 and 5 win over Laura Dempsey, the bottom match of Ann Smee was halved against Jennifer King when called-in.

They met Mid-Leinster Champions Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club in the All-Ireland Semi-Final in the afternoon, and were once again led out by Mary Dowling who had a 1-hole victory over Carol Wickham, she was followed by Katie Aherne who lost out to Alison Taylor by 5 and 3, next on the tee was Orla Dunphy against Rachel Taylor this match also went to the Co. Meath team by 3 and 2, the penultimate match of Mary Leahy-Browne guaranteed a gripping finish when she beat Barbara Cooney on the 19th, so it was all down to the bottom match of Ann Smee against Eleanor Metcalfe which also went to the 19th before Laytown & Bettystown booked their place in the All-Ireland Final and eventually won it by 4-matches to 1-match against Killarney Golf & Fishing Club. So Kilkenny will have to settle for yet another All-Ireland in the “Real Game“ of hurling as I for one expect them to win the McCarthy once again this year.   

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club were runners-up to Enniscorthy Golf Club in the Mid Leinster Irish Senior Cup at Wexford Golf Club on Sunday 12th May 2013, they were beaten on the 19th have been victorious over Enniscorthy the previous two-years in the decider.
It was on to Portumna Golf Club to compete in the National Deciders on Friday 16th August 2013, where they were drawn against The Island in the Quarter Finals. First on the tee was Mary Dowling who beat Gillian O’Leary on the 19th, she was followed by Eileen Rose Power lost out to Rachel Cassidy by one-hole, next up was Mary Leahy Browne who was also beaten by one-hole. The penultimate match of Orla Dunphy against Gertie McMullen went to the 20th before Orla put the point on the board, in the bottom match Ann Smee had the only comfortable match against Ashleigh Wilton with a 3 and 2 win.
They met their old rivals Enniscorthy Golf Club in the Semi-Finals and were again led by Mary Dowling who had a one-hole win over Aisling O'Leary again she was followed by Eileen Rose Power who finished 2-up against Sorcha Howell, next up was Orla Dunphy who lost out to Nicola King by 3 and 1, the penultimate match of Mary Leahy Browne against Ciara Sharkey finished 1-up to Kilkenny and with it a place in the All-Ireland Final, the bottom match of Ann Smee against Jennifer King finished 5 and 4 for the Wexford Club.
They met the Ladies of Royal Portrush Golf Club who were in search of their 26th Irish Senior Cup title in the decider. First on the tee was Mary Dowling who went down to Lucy Simpson by one-hole, next up was Eileen Rose Power against Victoria Bradshaw who recorded a 3 and 1 win for the North Antrim club, she was followed by Orla Dunphy who beat Helen Jones by one-hole, the penultimate match of Mary Leahy Browne against Naoimh Quigg was halved when called in. The bottom match of Ann Smee against Hannah Henderson went 3 and 1 to Royal Portrush.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club were runners-up in the All-Ireland Senior Cup Championship at Grange Golf Club on Sunday 18th August 2012.

They played Royal Portrush Golf Club in the All-Ireland Final and were narrowly beaten by the North Antrim team seeking their 25th Championship. They were lead by Mary Downing who had a 3 and 2 win over Charlene Reid, she was followed by Eileen Rose Power who lost to Lucy Simpson by 1-hole, next up was Mary Leahy-Browne who had a 3 and 2 win over Victoria Bradshaw. The penultimate match of Orla Bradley against Helen Jones went to the Irish Close Champion by 3 and 2, the bottom match of Ann Smee against Naoimh Quigg resulted in a 2-hole for the Northern ladies and with it the All-Ireland pennant.

They met East Leinster Champions The Island Golf Club in the All-Ireland Semi-Finals and had a convincing 3½-matches to 1½-matches win over the North Dublin Club. They played the same formation with Mary Downing recording a 2 and 1 win over Anna Courtney in the top match, next up was Mary Rose Power who beat Suzy Sheehan by 3 and 2, she was followed by Mary Leahy-Browne who lost out to Gertie McMullen by 4 and 3. The penultimate match of Orla Dumphy saw Kilkenny book their place in the decider with a 3 and 2 win over Ashleigh Wilton, the bottom match of Ann Smee was halved against Angie Dwyer when called-in.

They met Connacht Champions Roscommon Golf Club in the All-Ireland Quarter-Finals on the Saturday and had a similar result as their county senior hurlers had against Tipperary the following day!! when they blew them away with a 4½-matches to ½-match result.       

With the same formation, Mary Downing beat Roscommon’s No. 1 Sinead Benedetti by 6 and 5, next up was Eileen Rose Power who recorded a 4 and 3 win over Anne McCormack, she was followed by Mary Leahy-Browne who beat Mary Seymour by 3 and 2. The penultimate match of Orla Dumphy against April Timothy was halved when called in, the bottom match Ann Smee was another convincing 6 and 5 win over Mary Lalor.

They beat Enniscorthy Golf Club in the Mid Leinster Final at Tullamore Golf Club on Sunday 13th May 2012 by 3-matches to 2-matches, having defeated Wexford Golf Club by 4-matches to 1-match in the morning.

First up was Mary Dowling who beat Aisling O’Leary by 5 and 4, she was followed by Eileen Rose Power who recorded a 1-hole win over Sorcha Howell, next up was Orla Dumphy who lost out to Ciara Sharkey by 2 and 1. The penultimate match of Mary Leahy-Browne against Nikki King went 3 and 2 to the Wexford club, so it was all down to the bottom match of Ann Smee against Jennifer King that went down to the wire with Ann recording a 1-hole win and with it a place in the National deciders.       

Kilkenny Golf Club won the Leinster Final of the Irish Senior Cup when they beat Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club by 4 matches to 1 match in the final at Grange Golf Club on Sunday 22nd August 2010, having beaten Castle Golf Club by 3 matches to 2 in the semi-final. They made there way to Castlebar Golf Club to compete in the National deciders and were drawn against Ulster Champions Lurgan in the All-Ireland Semi-Finals on Friday 17th September.

First on the tee was G. Nugent against F. Tallon who lost his match by 3 and 2, he was followed by Craig Martin who lost to S. Kelly by 2 and 1, next up was Eddie Power against D. Sutton this match also went to the Armagh team by 5 and 3, with it the hopes of winning their first Irish Senior Cup. The penultimate match of Richie Walsh against G. Clarke was halved as was the bottom match of Paul O'Hara.

Kilkenny Golf Club won the All-Ireland Final of the Barton Shield for the first time on Thursday 17th September 2009; at Tullamore Golf Club.

They met Munster Champions Youghal in the All-Ireland Semi-Final on the Wednesday. First on the tee were Paul O'Hara and Graham Nugent who lost to Willie Jones and Darren O'Sullivan by 5-holes. They were followed by Eddie Power and Richie Walsh who had a comfortable 8-hole win over Tommy Kennefick and Stephen Prendergast, giving the Kilkenny team a 3-hole victory and their passage into the All-Ireland Final.

They met Ulster Champions Banbridge on the Thursday morning to decide the destination of the green pennant. First on the tee was Paul O'Hara with Craig Martin who beat Rory Leonard & Ciaran McAleavey by 1-hole in a ding-dong match, young Craig sank a put on the 16th and I remember saying "that's a match winner" and so it proved to be. They were followed by Eddie Power & Richie Walsh halved their match with Connor Doran & Alastair McCully, this match went down to the very last put on the 18th when Richie Walsh had to sink a 6-footer to clinch the title. Well done Kilkenny, one wonders has this team have the same aspirations as their hurling counterparts who clinched the 4-in-a-row Liam McCarty cup in 2009.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won their first Irish Senior Cup by defeating Royal Portrush at the first tie hole in a nail biting final at Mount Wolseley, 15 August 2009
They drew Southern District Champions Muskerry Golf Club in the All-Ireland Quarter-Final on the Friday. They were led by Eileen Rose Power who had a comfortable 6 and 5 win over Laura McCarthy. She was followed by Mary Dowling who had an even more resounding victory when beating Siobhan O'Herlihy by 8 and 7. Orla Dunphy secured the points with another fine win when beating Carmel O'Sullivan by 7 and 6. The remaining two matches of Mary Leahy Browne against Eadaoine Cronin and Anne Smee against Jean O'Driscoll were halved.

They met Eastern District Champions Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club in the All-Ireland Semi-Final on the Saturday morning. Laytown has beaten Roscommon by 4 matches to 1 match the previous dat. They were lead again by Eileen Rose Power who once again had a resounding win of 6 and 5 over Alison Taylor. Next on the tee was Mary Dowling who had a 2 and 1 win over Carol Wickham. She was followed by Orla Dunphy who had a similar result over Tracy Eakin. With the points secured and their passage to the final assured Mary Leahy Browne match against Phil O'Gorman was called in and the bottom match of Anne Smee against Barbara Cooney resulted in a 4 and 2 win for the girls’ from the Marble City.
On the Saturday afternoon they faced a strong Royal Portrush team who had beaten Bandon Golf Club by 3½ matches to 1½ on the Friday and Co. Louth Golf Club by a similar result in the morning.
Eileen Rose Power again led the team out against Charlene Reid, but unlike her previous two matches this match went all the way to the 19th before securing the vital point. Mary Dowling had a very comfortable 6 and 4 win over Naoimh Quigg. The middle match of Orla Dunphy against Lucy Simpson resulted in a 3 and 1 win for Kilkenny and with it the green-pennant. The penultimate match of Mary Leahy Browne against Helen Jones went 7 and 6 to the northern team and the bottom match of Anne Smee against Maura Diamond also went to the North Antrim team by 4 and 2.

As an ex-hurler I have always maintained that there is a great affinity between Golf and Hurling is my theory being proven? What with Kilkenny winning the All-Ireland Barton Shield at Tullamore Golf Club, the Ladies winning the Senior Cup and their hurlers winning the Liam McCarthy Cup for the 4th time in 2009 Q.E.D.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won their Regional Final in the Suzuki Senior Cup and participated in the All-Ireland Quarter-Finals at Milltown Golf Club on Friday 31st August 2007 where they were drawn against Royal Portrush Golf Club.

First on the tee was Eileen Rose-Power who lost her match against Gemma Hegarty by 2 and 1, she was followed by Mary Dowling who won her match against Lisa McMeekin by 4 and 3. Next up was Mary Leahy-Browne who lost her match to Helen Jones on the 19th. The penultimate match of Sinead Slater against Lucy Simpson saw the result go to the lady from North Antrim by 4 and 2. The bottom match of Evelyn Crotty against Roma English also went to Royal Portrush by 2-holes, giving Royal Portrush a 4 matches to 1 match result and a place in the All-Ireland Semi-Final the following morning.

Kilkenny Golf Club won the Leinster Club Youths' Championship at Beech Park Golf Club on the 3rd August 2006, when they returned a score of 138 Craig Martin shot a new course record of 65 with 9-birdies on his card. The team on the day was Craig Martin, Richard Walsh, brother David, Paddy McKee. They went on to play in the All-Ireland finals at Kinsale Golf Club on 21st August, where they finished a credible 2nd. All credit must go to J. D. Murphy whom I have seen night after night coaching the young men and women at this famous club.

The Girls' of Kilkenny Golf Club won the Leinster Final of the Junior Girls Inter-Club Challenge at Forrest Little Golf Club on the 28th July 2006, when the team was, Sinead Slater, Orla Dunphy and Katherine Teehan and Elaine Slater.

Young I. Keane had one hell of a round of golf when he won the Leinster Boys’ Under-15 Open Championship at Ashbourne Golf Club on Monday 17th July 2006, he shot-the-lights out with a 66 to beat C. Curran from Dundalk Golf Club by 5-strokes, with Q. Carew from Edenderry and R. Pierse from Grange coming in joint 3rd on 72.

Father and son Noel & Lee O'Sullivan won the Club Fourball and Foursomes at Kilkenny Golf Club on the 8th & 9th September 2006, something that has never happened in the history of the club and is unlikely to ever happen again.

Kilkenny Golf Club won the Leinster Final of the Cidona Irish Junior Foursomes and were drawn against Ulster Champions City of Derry in the All-Ireland Semi-Final at Dungarvan Golf Club on 24th August 2005.

First on the tee was the pairing of Craig Martin & Gary Byrne against Ruadhri McGee & Sean Morrison who lost by the slimmest of margins. They were followed by David Walsh & Patrick McKee against Aaron Taylor & Shane O’Doherty who had a similar result against the Kilkenny duo, thus City of Derry went through to the final with a 2-hole victory over the Leinster Champions.

From what I’m reliable told by my good friend J. D. Murphy this is by no means the last we will see of this Kilkenny squad. J. D. has done a wonderful job developing junior golf at the club and he is very pleased with the development of his squads at all ages.

The Girls' of Kilkenny Golf Club won the All-Ireland in the Cidona Girls' Inter Club Challenge in 2005, when the team was Kathryn Teehan, Orla Dunphy, Sinead and Elaine Slater, they were managed by Nuala Crotty and Ann Smee. 

Kilkenny Ladies won the Midland District Championship of the Suzuki All-Ireland Senior Cup in 2004 but were beaten in the All-Ireland Final by Royal Portrush at Athlone Golf Club on 4th September. The team was Eileen Rose-Power, Mary Dowling, Ruth Lennon, Mary Leahy, Evelyn Crotty, Ann Smee and Orla Dunphy.

Kilkenny Golf Club were runners-up in the Leinster Final of the Bulmers Barton Shield in 2003, when the team was Alan O'Rourke, Stephen Galvin, Richard Guilfoyle, Graham Nugent and Paul O'Hara, they were managed by Jim Craddock and Carl Widger.

Kilkenny won the Brennan Cup in 2002, when the team was, P. Collins, P. Smee. M. Butler, A J. Burke, S. Rochford, J. Gibbons, J. Ryan, M. Mahony, L. Kelly, T. Butler, D. Shelley, J. Martin, A. Bolger, E. Guilfoyle and E. Crosse, they were selected by O. Cullen.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won the Midlands Championship of the I.L.G.U. Senior Cup in 2002. They went to Balbriggan Golf Club on September 7th to play Claremorris in the quarter final. The team was Eileen Rose-Power, Ruth Lennon, Mary Leahy-Brown, Rita McGoldrick and Ann Smee. They were, captained by Mary Fennelly.

Kilkenny Golf Club won the Leinster Under-15 Championship in August 2002. The team was Aidan Boland, Colm Sheenan, Liam Ryan, Paul Brophy, Anthony White, Craig Martin and David Walsh. They were coached by Garry Murphy’s father J. D.  its nice to see J. D. still looking after the young lads at Kilkenny.

Kathleen Hession (22) and Maurice Mason (9) teamed up to compete in the Spar-Irish Independent National Mixed Pairs Challenge at Dungarvan on the 20th of June 2001. They returned 59 points, which saw them take first prize and booked their place in the National Final at Adare Manor Hotel & Country Club in August 2001.

P. Murray qualified for the National Finals of the Irish Times-Mitsubishi Motors Women's Masters. She returned 34 points in the semi-final at Glasson Golf Hotel & Country Club on the 23rd of August 2001. Then it was on to Galway Bay Golf & Country Club for the Final on 13th September.

Prior to 2001:

Kilkenny Golf Club won the All-Ireland Irish Mixed Foursomes at Royal Tara G. C. in 1988, when the team was Sean O'Neill with Joan Spratt, Eddie Guilfoyle with Adlienne Walsh, Padraic O'Rourke with Brenda Cowley, David McDonald with Brenda Burke, Richard Daly with Joan Norris, they were managed by Michael Barry and Kitty Nolan.

Kilkenny Golf Club won the Leinster Final of the Barton Shield in 1992 and were bronz medallists at Killarney Golf Club when the team was Pat O'Rourke, Ed Browne, Gary Murphy, Noel Leahy, John Madden, Ger Hogan, Richard Duggan and Gus Tobin, They were captained by Eamonn Goulding.

They were runners-up in the Pierce Purcell Shield All-Ireland in 1990, when the team was Jimmy Spratt, Mick Maurice, Eamon Goulding, Noel O'Connor, John O'Leary, Mick Kelly, Jim Meredith, Paddy Smee, Tom Deegan, Dom Murphy, Pat Coonan, Albert Bolger and Eamonn Crosse.

They won the Duggan Cup at Edenderry in 1995, when the team was J. Craddock, J. Rhatigan, F. Byrne, J. McCarthy, A. Bolger, E. Crosse, Christy Power, Andy Hughes, M. Barry and Sean O'Neill,. they were managed by Jack Lowry assisted by P. J. O'Reilly

They won the Barton Cup in 1977 when the team was G. Deloughry, S. O'Neill, J. Holohan, E. Gouglding, T. Deegan Snr, T. Duggan, D. Murphy, C. Rainey, D. Deloughry, T. O'Connor, B. Hurley and G. Stewart, they were captained by T. McDonald.

They won it prior to that in 1966, when the team was T. Riordan, K. Hunt, K. O'Neill, T. J. Mahon, L. Reidy, J. Butler, P. Fennelly, L. Renehan, G. Stewart, T. M. Duggan, W. S. O'Connor, N. Godwin and A. Duffin.

They won it for the first time in 1953 when they beat Delgany Golf Club in the final, when the team was Paddy Kennedy, Joe Dunphy, Milo Kennedy, Niall Godwin, Jim Short, Denis Clohosey, John Mitchell, Frank Harrison and Liam Reidy.

The Ladies of Kilkenny Golf Club won The Ulster Bank Ladies Fourball Championship in 1995, when the team was Pat Walsh, Margaret Stewart, Maisie Lamb, Yvonne Morgan, Brenda Crowley, Joe Lawlor and they were captained by Anne Skelly.

They won the ILGU Midland District Senior Cup in 2002, 1999, 1996, 1995 1994 and 1993, when the team was Mary Leahy, Rita McGoldrick, Eileen Rose-Power, Brenda Bourke, Yvonne Morgan and they were managed by Elaine Bradshaw.

They won it in 1987 when the team was Maisie Lambe, Adrienne Walsh, Joan Norris, Joan Spratt, Rita Walsh, Frances Long and Susan Reidy.

They won the Finn Trophy in 1989, when the team was Joan Spratt, Helen Dwan, Maureen McDonald, Pat Walshe, Aileen Hehir, Liz Cleere, Angela Keoghan, Kitty Nolan, Phil Cooke and Ann Widger. They won it prior to that in 1978, when the team was Joan Norris, H. Richardson, T. Hayes, M. Dowley, A. Reynolds, B. Sloyan, M. Riordan, P. Walsh, E. Ryan, J. Mullen, D. O'Regan and F. Jones.

They won the Midland Trophy 1976 with B. Crowley, M. Prendergast, H. Richardson, D. O'Driscoll and J. Mullen. They won it prior to that in 1974 with D. O'Driscoll, H. Richardson, M. Prendergast, B. Crowley, A. Walsh, P. Walsh and Joan Norris.

They were Midland League winners in 1978, with Joan Norris, B. Crowley, P. Walsh, D. O'Regan and H. Richardson.

They won the Cullen Cup with Margaret Renehan, Tim Hickey, Brenda Crowley, Paddy Johnston, A. Reynolds, Gus Carey, Eamonn Cross, Ann Skelly, Sean O'Neill, Mary Riordan, Gus Murray and Fanny Quinlan.

They won the Leinster Final of the Smurfit Juvenile Girls in 1981.

They won the McLoughlin Trophy in 1987, when the team was Mayreen McDonald, Kitty Nolan, Joan Norris, Brenda Crowley, Adrienne Walsh, Brenda Burke, Mary Hughes and Toni Hayes.

They won it prior to that in 1982, when the team was A. Hehir, Phil Walsh, Joan Spratt, Susan Reidy, H. Richardson, Maureen McDonald, Joan Norris and R. Hayes.

Gary Murphy Kilkenny Golf Club most famous son won the Co. Louth Boy's in 1986, 1987 and 1988, he won the Leinster under-15 championship in 1987 at The Island and got to the semi-finals of the Connacht Boys in 1988. The following year he was runner-up in the Ulster Boys. 1990 saw Gary win the Leinster Youths at Greystones, and was runner-up in the Irish and Leinster Boys', the following year saw him being selected on the Irish Boys for the Home Internationals and finishing 3rd in the Irish Youths. Gary won the Irish Close Championship in 1992 at Portstewart Golf Club when he beat J. P. Fitzgerald from Co. Louth 2 & 1, prior to that he won the Cork Senior Scratch Cup when beating Dennis O'Sullivan on the final hole. The same year he had to withdraw from the Quarter Finals of the South of Ireland at Lahinch due to illness.

Gary participated in the European Championships in the Czechoslovakia Republic winning 3 out of 4 matches in 1993 and represented G. B. & Ireland V Europe at Royal Troon. In January 1993 he went to Augusta University and had a distinguished carrier and represented the American University against Asia in Japan and returned home in December 1994 and became a full time armature during 1995 and represented Ireland in Holland winning the Mullingar Scratch Cup and the East Cork Scratch Cup for the second time. He was narrowly beaten in the West of Ireland Championship at Co. Sligo in 1995 when Eamon Brady of The Royal Dublin finished the match on the 23rd.

Gary participated in the Home International matches from 1992 to 1995, playing 22 matches. He was number 1 for Ireland at Prtestwick when winning 5 1/2 points out of 6 points a feat never achieved before, or since. Gary (in the Boys from 1988 to 1990, he represented Leinster from 1992 to 1995, played 10 matches and played Leinster Youths from 1990 to 1991, playing 11 matches.

Gary turning Professional together with Padraig Harrington and Liam Higgins after the Home Internationals at Royal Portrush in September 1995. He was unsuccessful at the Tour School in 1995 and headed for Canada in 1996 where he finished 3rd at the Tour School. In 1997 he went on the Asian Tour School and finished 1st that year, he continued playing the Asian Tour School for another year 1999 saw Gary finish 5th on the European Tour School but did not retain his Card.

He spent 2000 and 2001 on the Challenge Tour Gary regained his Tour Card in 2002 when he finished 5th on 23-Under.2003 saw Gary playing the European Tour and finished 59th in the Order of Merit. I for one expect to see Gary improve his statistics this year as I am reliably informed that he has sorted his putting by going back to the grip he had as a child, when he and his father J.D. won 4 National Father & Son's together.

Gary married in December 2003, having turned Professional in 1995 playing off +2 however he got his handicap to +4 when playing for Augusta University, it is no beyond reason to see Gary play in The Ryder Cup in 2004 and 2006.

Eddie Power represented Ireland in the Home Internationals at Royal Portrush G. C. on 22nd-24th September 1999. Eddie Power represented Munster from 1986 to 1998, having played over 70 matches.

Eileen Rose Power was selected to represent Ireland in the European Ladies Team Championship at Royal Haagsche, Holland in 1993, at Golf Club Milano, Monza in 1995 and at Nordcentre Golf and Country Club, Finland in 1997. She played in the Ladies Home Internationals at Royal Dornoch in August 1999, and at Lahinch in 1997, at Longriddry in 1996 and at Wrexham in 1995. She won the Senior Scratch Cup at Cork G. C. Shooting a wonderful round of 67 to be a whopping 13 shots ahead of the field after 36 holes.

Members who played representative golf for Country or Province;

Mark Power played Walker Cup in 2021.

J. D. Lyons represented Ireland as a Senior International in1952 playing 2-times won 0-matches and lost 2-matches accumulating 0-points;

Gary Murphy represented Ireland as a Senior International from 1992 to 1895 playing 30-times won 15-matches halved four and lost 11-matches accumulating 34-points. He represented Ireland at Irish Boys level from 1988 to 1990 playing 18-times won 5-matches halved two and lost 11-matches accumulating 12-points. He represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level from 1992 to 1996 playing 10-times won 4-matches halved three and lost 3-matches accumulating 11-points. He represented Leinster as a Youth Interprovincial from 1991 to 1992 playing 11-times won 3-matches halved two and lost 6-matches accumulating 8-points;

Padraic O’Rourke represented Ireland as a Senior International from 1980 to 1885 playing 30-times won 11-matches halved four and lost 15-matches accumulating 26-points. He represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level from 1977 to 1987 playing 56-times won 34-matches halved two and lost 20-matches accumulating 70-points;

Craig Martin represented Ireland at Irish Boys level in 2007 playing 5-times won 2-matches halved two and lost 1-match accumulating 6-points. He represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level in 2009 playing 3-times won 1-match and lost 2-matches accumulating 2-points. He represented Leinster as a Youth Interprovincial from 2008 to 2009 playing 12-times won 8-matches halved two and lost 2-matches accumulating 18-points. He represented Leinster at Boys  Interprovincial level in 2007 playing 6-times won 3-matches halved two and lost 1-match accumulating 8-points;

T. M. Duggan represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level from 1960 to 1968 playing 24-times won 10-matches halved five and lost 9-matches accumulating 25-points. He represented Leinster as a Youth Interprovincial from 1962 to 1963 playing 4-times;

F. A. Lyons represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level in 1938;

David McDonald represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level from 1982 to 1987 playing 25-times won 15-matches and lost 10-matches accumulating 30-points;

C. Moylan represented Leinster at Senior Interprovincial level from 1975 to 1979 playing 7-times won 4-matches and lost 3-matches accumulating 8-points;

M. Kavanagh represented Leinster as a Youth Interprovincial in 1976 playing 2-times won 1-match and lost 1-match accumulating 2-points;

Jimmy Leahy represented Leinster as a Youth Interprovincial in 1984 playing 4-times won 1-match and lost 3-matches accumulating 2-points;

C. Moylan represented Leinster as a Youth Interprovincial in 1974 playing 4-times won 2-matches and lost 2-matches accumulating 4-points;

Justin Woods represented Leinster at Boys  Interprovincial level in 1999 playing 4-times won 3-matches and lost 1-match accumulating 6-points;

Vivienne Hogan played for the Irish Girls in 1977, as did Rita Walsh.

History of Kilkenny

Instituted 1896 affiliated 1910

Kilkenny Golf Club was founded on the 2nd April 1896, at Daly’s Hill, which is situated to the north west of the city. In 1902 the club moved to Richview, Castlecomer Road.

In 1905 the course was changed to Garranacreen, Hebron Road, adjacent to the present Nolan Park (GAA Grounds). Garranacreen was a 9-hole winter links and was flat terrain but interesting and very well bunkered. The game was played over stonewalls and hedges and Miss Maher’s residence was used as the clubhouse.

In 1908 Kilcreene was, opened by the Marchioness of Ormond before a distinguished gathering. Kilcreene was a much bigger venture as the course had to be maintained winter and summer. It was splendidly bunkered and was laid out by Cecil Barcroft, who was a well-known player of his period.

Kilcreene was kept rather exclusive and many applicants were unable to obtain membership. Times were now difficult but owing to the generous assistance of the then Guarantors, James Harte, Richard Duggan and Richard Smithwick the club managed to keep going. In 1923, Right Rev. G. Day, Church of Ireland Bishop of Ossory opened the present club. The original clubhouse is now the home of Mrs. O’Connor, whose late husband W. S. was, a former captain.

Following that the clubhouse was moved to Newtown Manor, which is situated near the present 11th tee. In 1962 the clubhouse was sited at its present location and in the intervening years has been refurbished and extended to the fine building it is today.

What the Club tells us:

Kilkenny Golf Club was formally opened on April 2nd 1896 by Mr E Smithwick, J.P. at Barrett’s Hill, later known as Bishop’s Demesne, (Notice in Kilkenny Journal of April 4th 1896).

The members attended the first Annual General Meeting in the Victoria Hotel on Monday Dec 7th 1896. Mr Hudson , honorary treasurer reported a credit balance of £10, 3s, 1d, and was commended by Mr Catlin for his prudent financial management. The officers were agreed without the need for a ballot and were recorded as follows:

Chairman: Mr W.H.Catlin
President: Marquis of Ormonde
Vice Presidents: Rev G.W.Balle L.L.B., Principal Kilkenny College, Mr E. Smithwick J.P., & Mr L.J. Power J.P.,
Captain: Mr James Smithwick
Hon. Sec/Hon. Treasurer: Mr G.M. Hudson

Committee: A Committee of seven were elected by ballot: Messrs Harrison, Pitt & Kenealy were appointed as scrutineers, and following a ballot the following gentlemen were elected as the committee for the incoming year: Mr Johnstone, Mr Davis, Mr Harrison, Mr Spillane, MrCatlin, Mr Shiels, Mr Jordan.

The second monthly competition was held on December 26th 1896 and the Kilkenny Journal of Dec 30th 1896 recorded that Mr W. H. Jordan and Mr J Harrison tied for first place. At this time Kilkenny boasted 47 members and their only regret was the shortage of Lady golfers. The Club progressed smoothly through the remainder of the 19th century with the benevolent influence of the Smithwick’s family constantly evident.

1901 – Richview, Castlecomer Road

In 1901 the Club moved to Richview, Castlecomer Road, and Messrs J.J. O’Connell, J MacDonald, and A.M. Burden were prominent among the Officers/Committee members at this time. The shortage of Lady members was quickly addressed and the Kilkenny People of April 5th 1902 reported that the ladies played a competition over nine holes at the Easter weekend. The winner of this competition was Miss F. Hackett (18) 52, followed by Mrs Hackett, Miss A Sullivan, Miss Sullivan, Miss Harrison, Miss Neville, and Miss F. McDermott. Also a mixed foursome competition over 18 holes resulted in a triumph for J.J. O’Connell and Miss F. Hackett whose 84 net was too good for A.M. Burden and Miss A. Sullivan. Play continued here until 1905 when the Course was relocated to Garranacreen, Hebron Road, adjacent to the present Nowlan Park G.A.A. Ground.

Mr J.J. O’Connell was honorary secretary during these years and other Officers/Committee members included Messrs James Smithwick, Richard Duggan, Dr J.B. Hackett, Dr Louis Buggy, Michael Buggy, John A. Sullivan, Daniel Kerwick, and John Todd. Here golf play was restricted to winter months and the land reverted to agricultural use for the Summer/Harvest period. The last event of the year was played on Easter Monday. The nine hole links was reported to be “flat but interesting and very well bunkered”. The game was played over hedges and stone walls, and Miss Maher’s residence was used as the Club House.

1908 – Kilcreene

The Club then moved to Kilcreene in late 1908 and the new Links at Kilcreene was officially opened by the Marchioness of Ormonde before a distinguished gathering on Nov 14th 1908. Kilcreene was a big improvement in terms of Course Layout, condition of Greens and overall course maintenance. It was splendidly bunkered having been laid out by Mr Cecil Barcroft who was a well known player of this period. Although less than one year in existence the Course received a very favourable report in the Golfing Notes of the Irish Times of August 21st 1909.

Kilkenny Golf Club then became affiliated to the Golfing Union of Ireland in June 1910.. In September 1910, there was a significant development with the appointment of the first professional. He was Mr D. McDermott of Malahide, and the Kilkenny People informed it’s readers – inter alia…. “he comes with an excellent reputation for making and repairing clubs, and particularly for ability in teaching the game”

Mr J.J. O’Connell was still Honorary Secretary until about 1913 when his work took him away from Kilkenny and he was succeeded by Mercier Jones as Honorary Secretary who in-turn was succeeded by Mr C. Davis. Around 1914 Rev R. Birmingham became Hon. Secretary. Very difficult economic times prevailed during W.W.1 years but owing to the generous assistance of the then Guarantors – Messrs James Harte, Richard Duggan and Richard Smithwick the Club managed to keep going.. About 1915 Daniel Stapleton was appointed Hon. Secretary and in 1919 John O’Sullivan succeeded him.

1924 – Move to Current Site

Although Kilcreene was very well maintained, golf play was still restricted to the drier months of the year and consequently the Club continued in their efforts to procure a more suitable location to enable golf to be played continuously throughout the year. Kilkenny golf enthusiasts were therefore delighted to read of the successful procurement of the present site at Newtown in the Kilkenny People of March 14th 1923. The AGM of May 1923 was advised by Mr R Duggan, Chairman, of this wonderful news and he also confirmed that the new nine hole course would be completed and available to members by 1924. The new Course was formally opened on Thursday May 20th 1924 by Right Rev. G. Day, Bishop of Ossory. Mr G. C. Clery was appointed Hon. Secretary and was succeeded by Mr W. Connor who fulfilled the dual roles of Hon. Secretary and Honorary Treasurer until 1931 when he was succeeded by Mr David De Loughry. The new nine holes were generally located around the present 12th , 13th , 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th .

1938 – Opening of 18 Hole Course

The golf course was extended to 18 Holes between 1936 and 1938 and the new 18 hole Course opened during the Captaincy of Mr Richard Duggan in 1938.

Land conveyance in 1947 registered the transfer to ownership of Kilkenny Golf Club of 59 acres 3 roods and 5.5 perches. This land encompasses the present 6th, 7th, 8th 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th holes and part of the 5th Hole. Also in the same year the lease for land adjacent to Newtown Pavilion ( 4A, 2R, 4P.) was terminated.

From 1924 to 1962 a combination of the old O’Connor residence and Newtown Manor provided the Clubhouse accommodation, however in 1960 the committee agreed to proceed with the design and construction of a new Clubhouse, which was completed and opened in 1962 under the direction and leadership of Tom Mahon for a total cost of £11,000 ( 5,555 square feet – designed by Mr T. Mahon.). Radical changes to the Course Layout were implemented in parallel with the construction of the new Clubhouse. The old 8th became the new First, played in reverse and the old 7th became the new Second. The new Course was opened for play before the Clubhouse was officially opened in June 1962.

1980s – Clubhouse Extension

The Clubhouse was extended during the captaincy of the late Comdt. Eamon Goulding in 1980/1981. A further major extension and remedial works/alterations and revised layout was initiated during the captaincy of Mr Gus Tobin in 1989 and completed in 1990 in Michael Barry’s captaincy. In 1994 during the captaincy of Joe Nolan an additional twenty five acres adjoining the course was purchased, and a programme of major improvements to the Golf Course was planned and successfully implemented in the subsequent years, including the introduction of “sand based” greens to all holes, new Tee Box’s, new bunkers and revisions to fairway layouts.

1990s

The 1990’s also saw Kilkenny member Liam Reidy become President of the Golfing Union of Ireland in 1992. Liam, who had previously presided as Chairman of the Leinster Branch of G.U.I. from 1987 to 1991 was an “all-round sportsman” – with many successes in both hurling and golf. Liam won a Leinster minor medal with the county and three county senior titles with Eire Og. He won four senior Leinster Championships with Kilkenny in 1945, 1946, 1947, and 1950, but perhaps his greatest hurling success came in 1947 when he helped the county to win All-Ireland honours. On retiring from hurling Liam joined Kilkenny Golf Club in 1951 and within weeks was successful in winning the Captain’s prize. He continued to excel at golf and included in many of his successes was the winning of the Waterford Glass Trophy in 1957 and then in 1966 he joined the elite to have figured in two successful Barton Cup teams. Liam brought great ability, style and integrity to all of the offices he held and was the obvious choice to emerge as Chairman of the Centenary Committee in 1996.

Centenary Year 1996

The Centenary commemorative events and celebrations were both uplifting and memorable and their success was largely attributable to the foresight of the Club in creating a dedicated Centenary Committee in 1994. L. Reidy presided as Chairman and was ably assisted by the following committee members; E. Goulding, C. Power, A. Tobin, P. Fennelly, J.D. Murphy, J. Nolan, M. Gibbons, R. Cody, Mrs M Barry, Mrs J. Duggan (Lady Captain), J. Teehan ( Captain), Ms M Prendergast ( Secretary),

Representative Honours

Local members Gary Murphy and Paraic O’Rourke both represented Ireland as senior internationals. Paraic made his international début alongside Ronan Raferty and Philip Walton and continued to play international golf for more than thirty events.

Gary turned professional in 1995 and has enjoyed continuous success on the professional tour all over the world for seventeen years. Gary won the 2005 Azores Open and had his best finish in the British Open in 2003, the week after a top five finish in the Scottish Open. Since retiring from the Tour, Gary continues his interest in Golf as an analyst for both Setanta and Sky and provides a very informative insight to the professional game for viewers

Ladies senior internationals include Nancy Todd, Rita Walsh and Eileen Rose Power. Internationals honours at schools level include Milo Kavanagh, Jimmy Leahy, Christy Moylan, Gary Murphy, Rita Walsh, Nano Brennan and Vivienne Hogan.

Smithwicks Scratch Cup

The Smithwicks Scratch Cup was inaugurated in 1964. The first winner was a Kilkenny member – Tom Duggan – and he was followed the next year by Ireland’s most famous amateur golfer, Joe Carr. The Kilkenny Premier Senior Trophy has been keenly contested and won by many of Ireland’s most famous amateur golfers including Brian Malone, Liam Higgins, John O’Leary, Martin O’Brien, D McGrane, Pat Mulcare, Paraic O’Rourke, Liam McNamara, Mark Gannon, Padraig Harrinigton, Eddie Dunne, and Eddie Power (5 Times). Quite uniquely, Padraig Harrington’s current caddy Ronan Flood also won the Smithwicks Scratch Cup six years after Padraig in 1998. Other Kilkenny members to win the Cup include Paul O’Hara, Jim Mahon, David McDonald, Tom Deegan (jnr.) and Michael Buggy.