Captain Richard looks forward to exciting new season
A new and exciting competition season lies ahead for the members of County Armagh Golf Club in 2015, according to its Captain Richard Black.
The picturesque woodland course set within the City's Palace Demesne, is celebrating 40 years as an 18-hole venue. And with over 100 competitive events planned for the forthcoming season, a special anniversary celebration is indeed on the cards.
Captain's Day is the highlight annually for every golf club, but County Armagh Captain Richard will this year enjoy a double celebration as the club marks an exciting milestone.
“I've put my Captain's Day back until the end of July (25 th ) to allow some time for the club and members to celebrate County Armagh's 40 years as an 18-hole course,” explains Richard.
County Armagh Golf Club Captain Richard Black (left) checks out the greens on the city course with new Greens Convenor Tom Calvert.
“There are a number of events we are planning to mark the anniversary, all culminating in a fantastic Open 4-Ball competition on May 22 nd .”
Having taken over from Pat McAleavey (Past Captain) in January, Bessbrook-born Richard smiles broadly as he considers the new season's calendar.
“I can honestly say I'm looking forward to it all,” he beams. “There is so much to enjoy. As well as the club's own monthly Medal competitions, Bumble-Bee, Hirsch, Allen and Bankers Cups', we have major open competitions including the Lonsdale Cup, Henry White Memorial and Gerry Lenagh. In fact there are more than 30 Open competitions on the club calendar this year and all sponsored by local businesses. With Dr Oliver Woods hosting his President's Day in May and Margaret Marjoram's Lady Captain's Day in June, it really is going to be a very special competition year,” adds Richard.
One of the oldest golf clubs in Ireland, County Armagh is currently enjoying an exciting buzz with more than 30 new members signing up since the beginning of the year.
“We've welcomed some new members from our neighbouring clubs,” reveals Captain Richard. “And we are hoping to add to these numbers before the season gets underway properly. The special rates for newcomers are very attractive,” he adds.
“We are always happy also to welcome visitors from far and wide on any day as well as societies, big and small, which can be facilitated both weekdays and week-ends.”
In preparation for the new competition season Club Greenkeeper Ian McCarragher and his team have been busy during the winter months ensuring the woodland course that is County Armagh lives up to its excellent reputation. Indeed, under stewardship of new Greens Convenor Tom Calvert, fairways and greens are already beginning to take exceptional shape.
“Tom is just one of a number of new faces on the Club's Council this year,” reveals Captain Richard. “And with the existing members there is a fresh, new outlook as to how the club moves forward. There's a real mix of knowledge and experience and that will be essential as we tackle the many issues and challenges golf clubs face nowadays.”
Meanwhile, Club Professional for more than 20 years, Alan Rankin continues to provide an excellent level of service to members from his Pro Shop and boasts one of the best equipped workshops in the country.
And in the Green Room Restaurant upstairs Dobbs Chemshirov continues to satisfy all tastes with a wide selection of expertly prepared food to choose from both snack and full a la carte menus.
A new Bar Manager has also been appointed - Damien McKeown brings a wealth of experience to the club bar, and alongside a friendly staff will happily dispense a huge selection of beers, spirits and wines, teas and coffees, to the many club customers.
““We have a very welcoming bar and restaurant to compliment a fabulous course at County Armagh,” boasts Captain Richard. “And some of the most picturesque sights of the City and district can be enjoyed from the pleasant, comfortable clubhouse.
“For members and visitors alike I hope this golfing season everyone will join me in celebrating a very special year.”
County Armagh Golf Club Captain Richard Black toasts new Bar Manager Damien McKeown with a pint of his favourite tipple.
County Armagh Golf Club lotto winner Natacha McKeown, with kids Lauryn (11) and Noah (8), is congratulated by Club Captain Richard Black after collecting her £1600 winnings.