Promoting Golf in Swinford

JOHN KELLY, CAPTAIN, 1997

It is a great honour to be men’s Captain in this, the 75^th anniversary year of the club. The unfortunate accident our esteemed President, Mary Mannion, had, has overshadowed events this year. We all wish Mary a speedy recovery.

Over the past number of years many fine improvements have been carried out to the course and clubhouse. However, much more needs to be done. To achieve our objectives in the future, harmony and respect for the club must exist. Committees elected by members have a duty to carry out their functions properly, to ensure that the affairs of the club are managed on behalf of all members in a professional and transparent way.

Our club is about people and not individuals. It is about the promotion of the game of golf in Swinford, to be enjoyed by those who wish to play. In this context, junior golf is essential and it is good to note the many young people using the facility. They are indeed most welcome as they are the future of our club into the year 2000 and beyond.

We can be proud of our course and facilities. We all wish for the ultimate – an 18 holes course. However, with a limited budget, the club has done very well during its 75-year lifespan.

It was fitting to have both an Anniversary Classic and function, and they were a huge success. It demonstrates how well the club is regarded, as many visitors played in our Classic. It was also gratifying to note how well the function in the clubhouse was supported by members.

The Connaught Junior Open was staged at the Club this year and many tributes were paid by the visitors to the quality of our course. Underage players from practically every club in Connaught enjoyed the occasion. The Golf Club is a tremendous asset to the town as it contributes to the local economy in many ways. It is highly regarded in golfing circles, and long may it enjoy that respect. We have a fine 9 hole parkland course, giving enjoyment to members and visitors alike. It deserves to be looked after and improved for the membership which we now enjoy.