The Academy will be a godsend to PGA professional and local native Seamus McMonagle and see local schools benefit from expert coaching at a facility that has three covered bays, one of which can be equipped for TrackMan technology.
As for the course, Dunfanaghy is not meant to be a Championship test. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be stunning.
“It’s a members course and it can be one of the most scenic in Donegal,” McGinley said. “But many of the holes are built under the sand dunes, so what I am doing with the Sheephaven Bay Project is taking the greens at the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth and raising them up so we can enjoy those sea views.”
Work on the course will not start until the appropriate environmental assessments, which are well in hand, have been carried out.
But to facilitate the transition, a new par three will be built, giving the 640 members 19 holes so there will always be 18 in play as work designed to maximise the spectacular views is gradually carried out.
“The key to the Academy is getting the local schools involved so we can generate new members and sustainability for the future,” said Chairperson Colm Donaghy.
“We have around 30 junior rights now and we’re hoping to grow that number substantially. We’ve also been successful getting more women to join through our Get Into Golf programme and the plan is to continue that.”
As for the course redesign, the hope is that it will generate increased visitor numbers, which will mean financial sustainability for the club.
“We took in €120,000 in green fees this year, which is an increase on last year,” Colm said. “The rack rate is just €60 midweek, but it’s €50 if you’re a Golf Ireland member and €40 if you’re Donegal Golf Ireland. With a member it’s €20.
“The course project is going to cost from €450,000 to €500,000 to carry out all the phases but Paul has done all the design work for free.
“He’s been tremendous, as all the McGinley’s have been. His father, Mick was brilliant for the club — a former President and Captain who was a big driving force for positivity in terms of developing Dunfanaghy.”