Portmarnock

[Thomas Dai]

My recollection of Portmarnock, thanks Ally, as refreshed by the photos posted above is not only what a wonderful course but also how it can be played essentially along the ground most of the time if one wishes too. RCD on the other hand I recall as having many shots where the aerial game is needed plus quite a few forced carries. Are these fair recollections?

atb

[David_Tepper]

atb -

I played both courses on my first trip to Ireland 38 years ago. Portmarnock was the first links course I ever played.
While my memory is a bit hazy, I would agree with your recollections. RCD had several blind tee shots over dune ridges and Portmarnock did not. RCD was certainly a more impressive/intimidating course visually.

Shell's WWOG Billy Casper vs. Harry Bradshaw at Portmarnock, 1963:

part 1- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-yk2oL_g2w

part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMyM8Z6I79M

DT