Glashedy Links Course
15th Hole / Par-4 / 451 Yards
“Tobar Mhuiris”
Architect: Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock (1995)
Ballyliffin, County Donegal, Ireland
When Pat Ruddy was originally contacted to come to Ballyliffin the scope of his involvement was to be centered on updating the club’s other 18-hole layout – The Old Course.
Ruddy saw an opportunity to create a second 18 on land adjacent to the property and the club agreed to do the undertaking.
Ballyliffin is geographically Ireland’s most northernmost course.
The land is as unpredictable as the weather. Golfers need to be ever vigilant in adjusting to the variable conditions encountered.
Glashedy Links is a difficult challenge and not for the faint hearted playing 7,542 Yards as a par-72 layout.
Ballyliffin is often described as “the Ballybunion of the North” or “the Dornoch of Ireland” and the reason is simple; the aforementioned are set amidst towering natural sand dunes.
This youngster is no exception, except that the Glashedy links has been flattened out, ensuring the fairways are relatively even and capable of hosting a championship — similar to what one finds with the fairways of long-time Open Championship venue Royal Birkdale.
The par-4 15th at Glashedy merits special attention. The name “Tobar Mhuiris” which translates to “The Holy Well of Maurice,” – the stout two-shot par-4 turns left in the drive zone and the approach is played to a heavily defended raised green. There are sloping approaches that can quickly funnel one’s golf ball into the three pot bunkers guarding the front channel.
The enchanting backdrop of Pollan Bay and Glashedy Island can quickly distract golfers from the epic challenge presented.
From the elevated tee, playing into the prevailing wind, the fairway is sternly protected left and right with deep bunkers. Entrance into either of them can likely cause scorecard pain.
As you turn the corner of the dog-leg you see the green fortified with bunkers awaiting the hapless approach.
When reaching the putting surface, you encounter an array of vexing subtle movements calling upon keen attention.
The 15th begins a homeward stretch of finishing holes that provide no reprieve except for those capable in producing the highest quality of shotmaking.
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M. James Ward
A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 68-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 13 Ryder Cup matches. His writings have appeared in various outlets. On a personal level, has played over 2,000 courses globally and is lead reviewer for Top 100 Golf Courses.
Previously served for 17 years as national course rating panelist for Golf Digest. Has also personally competed in USGA Championships. Resides in the metro New York City area with his wife Celeste. Favorite quote paraphrased for golf — “You are what your golf score says you are.”