OPULANT GOLFING EXPERIENCE

Period drama unfolds at Carton house as avid golfers take to the fairways on two championship golf courses. Aine Mangan tells Niamh MacSweeney the appeal of one of Ireland’s finest golf clubs and explains why membership is proving so attractive for Dublin’s corporate elite

Steeped in history, Carton House Golf Club has attracted members from across Ireland and throughout the world with its outstanding golf courses, picturesque surroundings and magical beauty.

One of Irelands supreme stately homes, Carton House was once the ancestral seat of the Earl of Kildare and Dukes of Leinster. Located 14 miles outside Dublin, the hotel is surrounded by 1100 acres of magnificent, expansive parkland. Two true championship golf courses, created by Colin Montgomerie and US Masters champion, Mark O’Meara provide golfers with some of the best golf holes and greens in Ireland.

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP

Aine Mangan, Sales and Marketing Manager for Carton Golf, explains that the recently launched corporate membership is attracting golfers due to its good value for money and the fact that all the facilities are located in one place.

“Our corporate members enjoy all the privileges that an individual member would have. I think in relation to other clubs, it really is the best value in what it offers the specific needs of companies. Membership incorporates the entire estate so its not just golf, it’s a whole lifestyle,” she says.

INVITING ATMOSPHERE

According to Mangan there is a lot of history and spirit to Carton House, with the members adding to this atmosphere. “We are so fortunate to have a great group of members here already. There is a real soul to Carton which is something that you can’t buy. It comes from the surroundings, the history and heritage of the estate, the wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, the people and our renowned service. Carton is a very special place.” she says.

two CHAMPIONSHIP COURSES

Designed by Mark O’Meara, this classic parkland course might lull you with its beauty but is still full of challenge. You’ll find yourself skirting the banks of the river Rye then sending the ball soaring over its’ golden waters. “It has to challenge golfers of all abilities and I think that is exactly what we achieved,” says O’Meara.

The Montgomerie, or “Monty” as it has become effectionately known offers exciting quality inland links golf. The rolling fairways run fast and firm, the magnificent bunkering demands strategic and shotmaking excellence. According to Colin Montgomerie inspiration for the design came from a desire to return to a more traditional course. “Few holes are straight up and down the wind but tend to be across, which brings the bunkering into play. This is the kind of course where the best players would always come out on top,” he explains.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Many awards have been bestowed on the courses including the prestigious 2006 Best Course voted by readers of Golf Punk Magazine. With two championship courses, a luxurious hotel, spa, health club and conference rooms Mangan says Carton House is a corporate member’s heaven. “Carton is a great place for corporate members because they can come to play golf, their partners can indulge themselves in the spa, enjoy a formal or informal lunch and take advantage of conference facilities – all in their own club”

Contact: Aine Mangan in Golf Membership on +353 (0)1 6517715 or golfmembership@cartonhouse.com

Published in the July/August 2007 Issue of Irish Entrepreneur