CRADDOCKSTOWN golf club marks its 30thanniversary in July, ‘a tale of courage and achievement, created by pioneers,’ according to the club.
‘By any standard this was a brave venture, a dream borne out of ambitious conversation,’ said Jack O’Connor, the first captain in 1994.
The history of Craddockstown evolved from a sociable group of golfers known as ‘The Nomads’ who played at Edmonstown golf club every weekend.
The Nomads found a new home at Killeen, which became known as Four Lakes Golf Club, before purchasing 140 acres at Craddockstown Lodge & Stud Farm situated on the Blessington Road outside Naas.
The original design by Arthur Spring was given a face-lift under the watch of Robert Trent Jones Jnr and was re-opened on June 19, 2004.
The risk and reward par downhill five first hole sets the tone for a hugely enjoyable sporting challenge, complete with outstanding greens, for players of all abilities.
A favourite for many is the short par four 10th, played to a green with water on three sides – the approach is a knee-knocker.
The annual Open Week (June 29- July 7) attracts players from near and far, with booking live from Tuesday, June 4 at 045-897610 or email: enquiries@craddockstown.com.
Despite its name, Craddockstown has no ties to the great Craddock golfing family from Malahide.
The best known of the Craddock brothers were Tom, an Irish Close champion and Walker Cup player, and Joe, the popular professional at Clontarf for many years.