Our History

CLUB HISTORY

The clubhouse was built on its present site in 1896, It has undergone changes due to a fire (1905) and periodic additions to accommodate growing numbers.

THE CLUBHOUSE

The present interior layout was completed in 2003. The Bradshaw Room and the Dining Room cater for members and visitors alike and afford panoramic views of the links.

In February, 1906 the plans for a new clubhouse were formed and accepted by members and the clubhouse reopened less than a year later.

The first place to be used as a clubhouse was a small thatched cottage rented from Maggie Leonard, it stood near the present 1st green. The first proper clubhouse was erected within two years of the club’s foundation on the site of the present building. Fire ravaged the clubhouse and contents on December 30th, 1905.

Over an expanse of 130 years, Portmarnock Golf Club has played host to some of the game’s most distinguished players, from Harry Vardon to Arnold Palmer, and more recently Padraig Harrington, Rory McIlroy, and Phil Mickelson.

1927
The Irish Open

Portmarnock hosted the inaugural Irish Open in 1927 and subsequently staged it on 19 occasions — more than any other venue.

Winners include Severiano Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer, Ian Woosnam, Ben Crenshaw, and Michael Campbell.

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1949
The Amateur Championship

Held May 23-28, 1949, with 204 competitors. Max McCready defeated Willie “The Wedge” Turnesa in the final.

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1959
The Dunlop Masters

Joe Carr held a four-stroke lead after 54 holes but lost to Christy O’Connor’s course-record final round of 66.

I found myself fighting shadows.

— Joe Carr
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1960
The Canada Cup

Sam Snead and Arnold Palmer claimed victory for America. Ireland’s Christy O’Connor and Norman Drew finished fourth.

I've learned a lot of shots I've never played before in my life.

— Arnold Palmer
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1965
The Dunlop Masters

Christy O’Connor Snr shot a remarkable 73 before play was abandoned. Bernard Hunt won with 283.

One of the greatest rounds in the history of the game.

— Tony Jacklin
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1970
Alcan Golfer of the Year

Bruce Devlin won by seven strokes with 278, claiming the £23,000 prize.

Paddy Skerritt earned £3,000 — the richest prize for an Irish golfer on home soil at that time.

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1991
The Walker Cup

First time in Ireland. USA defeated GB&I. Featuring Phil Mickelson’s exquisite wedge play.

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1997
European Amateur Team Championship

The 20th edition featured Portmarnock members Noel Fox and Jody Fanagan against Justin Rose, Sergio Garcia, Jamie Donaldson, and Henrik Stenson.

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2012
St Andrews & Jacques Léglise Trophy

Europe defeated Great Britain & Ireland for both trophies in this prestigious amateur team event on the windswept links.

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2019
The Amateur Championship

The R&A awarded Portmarnock during the club’s 125th anniversary. James Sugrue became the 8th Irishman to win The Amateur.

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2024
2024 Women's Amateur Championship

The 121st Women’s Amateur Championhsip took place from 24th – 29th June 2024

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