Golf’s Irish Roots and Celebrating St Patrick's Day on the Links
Ireland has a deep and historic connection with golf, making it one of the world's premier destinations for the sport, from legendary courses to legendary Irish golfers, to playing host to major tournaments. Golf is part of Ireland’s history and an important part of Ireland’s tourism economy. Though St Patrick’s Day is not a golfing holiday per se, there are many fun ways that the golfers of Ireland celebrate the day with a round of golf. And given Irelands rainy weather, perhaps a pot of gold can be found at the end of the rainbow at the 19th hole!
1. Golf’s Historic Irish Roots
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Golf has been played in Ireland since at least the 19th century, with The Royal Curragh Golf Club (founded in 1858) being the oldest in the country.
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The island is home to over 400 golf courses, many ranking among the best in the world.
2. Legendary Golf Courses
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Ireland boasts some of the world's most famous links courses, which are characterized by their rugged coastal landscapes, natural dunes, and unpredictable weather.
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Notable courses include:
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Royal County Down (Northern Ireland) – Regularly ranked among the best courses globally.
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Royal Portrush – Hosted The Open Championship in 2019 and will again in 2025.
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Ballybunion – A favorite of legendary golfers like Tom Watson.
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Lahinch, Portmarnock, Waterville, and Old Head – Other top-tier links courses.
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3. Irish Golfing Legends
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Ireland has produced numerous world-class golfers, including:
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Rory McIlroy – Multiple-time major champion and former world number one.
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Padraig Harrington – Three-time major winner.
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Shane Lowry – Won The Open Championship in 2019.
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Darren Clarke, Graeme McDowell – Both major winners from Northern Ireland.
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4. The Ryder Cup & Major Tournaments
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Ireland has hosted major international tournaments, including:
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The Ryder Cup (2006) at The K Club.
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The Open Championship (2019, 2025) at Royal Portrush.
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Irish Open – A European Tour event that attracts top golfers every year.
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5. Golf Tourism & Economy
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Golf tourism contributes significantly to Ireland’s economy, attracting visitors worldwide who come to play its famous courses.
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Many courses offer breathtaking scenery along the coast, making them popular beyond just competitive players.
Ireland’s unpredictable weather, with wind and rain often affecting play, makes golfing there a unique and challenging experience. This is tempered by the traditional Irish hospitality and the "19th hole" (pub culture) making golf in Ireland as much about camaraderie as competition. Because of its rich history, stunning courses, and legendary players, Ireland remains a powerhouse in the world of golf.
While St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) is not traditionally associated with golf in Ireland the way it is with parades and celebrations, many golfers and courses embrace the holiday in their own way. Here are some fun St. Patrick’s Day golf traditions and events you might come across in Ireland:
1. St. Patrick’s Day Golf Tournaments
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Many golf clubs across Ireland (and worldwide) host St. Patrick’s Day-themed competitions.
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These are often fun, relaxed scrambles with prizes for best-dressed in green, closest to the pin, or longest drive.
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Clubs like Portmarnock, Lahinch, and Royal Dublin often hold special events for members.
2. Green-Themed Golf Outings
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Some courses encourage players to dress in green or even wear shamrock-themed gear.
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Special “green ball” competitions, where players must play a certain hole with a green golf ball, add a festive challenge.
3. Golf & Guinness 🍻
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Many golfers celebrate with a post-round pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey at the clubhouse.
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Some clubs offer special St. Patrick’s Day menus, including traditional Irish fare like stew or soda bread.
4. Irish Charity Golf Days
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Some clubs use St. Patrick’s Day as an opportunity to host charity golf events, raising funds for local causes.
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These might include raffles, silent auctions, or donation-based entry fees.
5. Destination Golf Trips for the Holiday
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Many golf tourists visit Ireland in March to combine St. Patrick’s Day festivities with rounds at famous courses like Ballybunion, Lahinch, and Royal County Down.
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Dublin and Galway are top spots for both golf and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, offering the best of both worlds.
6. ‘Luck of the Irish’ Golf Superstitions ☘️
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Some Irish golfers lean into good-luck superstitions, such as:
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Carrying a shamrock ball marker for luck.
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Believing that holing a putt on St. Patrick’s Day brings good fortune for the rest of the season.
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Though not an official tradition, St. Patrick’s Day is a great excuse for golfers to get together, have fun, and enjoy some Irish hospitality on and off the course.