Galway members push to reverse Irish Amateur Open decision
Spectators watch the final of the 2017 AIG Irish Amateur Close Championship at Galway Golf Club. Picture: Pat Cashman
A Emergency General Meeting could be on the cards at Galway Golf Club after a leading member said he was “mortified” by the recent decision by Council to inform Golf Ireland that the club did not wish to host this summer’s Irish Amateur Open.
The championship was awarded to Galway for the 2020 and 2021 editions but after last year’s cancellation due to Covid-19 and internal division at the club, a vote was taken earlier this week to pull the plug on Ireland’s leading 72-hole stroke play event, much to the dismay of many, including this passionate club stalwart:
“Galway is arguably the strongest golf club in the country. When we travel be it to Portrush or Lahinch and beyond we wear our club crest with pride. People ask about Sean Hosty, Tommy O’Connor and most recently Ronan Mullarney. They know of all our success in Senior Cup in recent years a record they can only hope for and always ask about our junior programme. It was great to be a Galway member. But now we have let the country down and our crest does not have the same standing.
“It says in our constitution that the club’s role is to promote and develop the game of golf. We would be hosting the elite golfer, future professionals to our City and club. They would be such role models for our junior members. A week where they could watch these players practice, play and even caddie. They would witness work ethic, sportsmanship, competition and camaraderie at first hand an experience that cannot be gained through book or film. Memories and experiences that would last a lifetime, what better promotion of the game of golf…..
“I would like as many names as possible on my request for the EGM to send a resounding message to those who think they represent us.”
The email has already generated some 140 supporters in 24 hours and that may be enough to force the club council to reconsider its recent decision.
With Golf Ireland already looking at potential alternative venues for an event scheduled for August 12-15, it remains to be seen if there will be a change of heart at Galway Golf Club and, if so, whether or not it has come too late.
