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CBS News Review
Review of Ring of Kerry Golf Course, by CBS News Correspondent, Rob Armstrong
The following is an extract from the widely read "Golfing in Ireland" guide, written by Rob Armstrong:
When you pull into the parking lot at Ring of Kerry Golf & Country Club, halfway up a mountain on the banks of Kenmare Bay, you know you are in for something very special. The first look back down the mountain reveals a breathtaking scene - the fairways and greens are superbly manicured, the bunkers are well maintained and raked, and you are in for a serious test of Irish golf.
By definition, Ring of Kerry is a parkland course, but there are hybrid elements to it. The turf has a links-like firmness. The mounding, contours and rocky clusters on the fairways and in the rough, along with nasty patches of gorse and tall grass (typical of links golf courses), make the layout unusual. Add to that the mountain feel of the place (the only place in all of Ireland that offers the kind of mountain golf similar to that which defines such fine U.S. courses as Cascades in Virginia and Castle Pines in Colorado). From the standpoint of location, design, topography and sheer golfability, this is one of the most unique golf courses in Ireland.
The bottom line is that Ring of Kerry is a great golf course. In fact, the golf course may well be the jewel in the crown of architect Eddie Hackett's lifetime of golfing achievements. Despite the fact that it is not a links, it is an example of the very best in new Irish golf-course design. It retains its Irishness, its Celtic temperament and flavor, its distinct character. And while there are American-style parkland courses that are not worth the time of a visitor from the United States, this Irish gem should be on everybody's short list of superior Irish experiences.
"Golfing in Ireland"
Rob Armstrong
Correspondent CBS News for 25 years
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