2nd hole / 457 Yards / Par-4
“Strand”
Architect: Charles Thompson
Updated by Pat Ruddy (2000)
Those going to Ireland would be extremely remiss in not scheduling time to visit the northwest corner of the country.
Portsalon Golf Club often does not receive the lion’s share of attention but the club provides one of the finest holes in the country.
Commencing from an elevated tee the par-4 2nd is a clear test of nerve and top tier execution. The hole turns left and invites the bold aggressive tee shot. However, getting too close on the left side can extract some serious pain on the scorecard. An adjoining lough awaits and can spell a quick and fatal resting spot for one’s golf ball.
Related: Grade “A” Architecture
Tee shots going too far right face a longer approach and must then carry a ditch that blocks the pathway to the green.
The putting surface also contains subtle movements and it can be quite vexing to decipher them on a first-time visit.
The 2nd at Portsalon blends beauty and strategic elements in one total package. Without question, one of the finest hole in all of Ireland.
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Images courtesy of Portsalon GC
