I am going to be in Ireland at the end of September. I really want to play a round at Ballybunnion. I know the weather is difficult to predict. However, is it better to play in the morning or the afternoon? What are the advantages of playing one time or the other? Your help is appreciated.

Vince

Yes, the weather is difficult to predict. Just get yourself some waterproofs and play Ballybunion [note spelling] at whatever time suits your schedule.

However, if you play very early, you may get a bit of a price break and then have the rest of the day to sightsee.

Thank you for the help. And also for the spelling correction. I am very excited about my first trip to Ireland. My wife and I are going to have a wonderful time.

Hi Vince: I love seeing that name!! My grandparents were born in Ballybunion, and left at about age 21 for the USA. We've visited several times, and I remember playing the links in the seventies when there was just a small (garage sized) club house.

Imagine my surprise when we went back many years later (after Pres. Clinton had played there) and found a first class clubhouse!

The folks at the club house were so very friendly and welcoming. Well, everyone seems to be like that in Ireland!

have a wonderful trip!

Make sure you check on the dress---at "Old Head" no jeans allowed past the gate. "Old Head" was the only time we broke out our dress pants in Ireland, and that was just to get into the clubhouse to buy a hat and shirt. MDH would have loved to golf there, but we just didn't have the time.

Fore!!!

taconictraveler: Thank you for your kind words. My grandfather was born and raised in Ballylongford, before coming to America (to allow his younger brother to take over the farm). Many of my relatives still reside in Kerry (Lisselton and Listowel) with a third cousin in Shannon. It seemed like Ballybunion would be an excellent location to visit with family, enjoy the scenery, and play a round of golf at the Famed Ballybunion Old Course. We have a tee time at 8:58 am, it didn't provide the cheaper rate, but allows us to relax and have a good breakfast before teeing off.

TPAYT: Thanks for the advice. We looked at Old Head, but it was too far out of the way. Most of the lessons from my grandfather were based on etiquette and not how to swing a club. Therefore, I always have a collared shirt and never wear jeans on the course. I can imagine your shock though, when you just went to buy some souvenirs.

Take care everyone,
Vince