Galgorm Castle Times Issue 3 (February 2018)

Issue 3

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February 2018

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Destination

GALGORM

Strengthening relationships in exciting new journey Captains’ Messages

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Course Update

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NI Open 2018

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Open Fixtures

ROSS OLIVER

JOINING FORCES

NEW RESTAURANT

ACADEMY

Question & Answers with Galgorm Castle’s Director of Golf

Galgorm Castle teams up with Galgorm Resort & Spa

Exciting new venture for Galgorm clubhouse

Gareth Maybin and coaching centre of excellence

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CONTENTS

WELCOME

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elcome to our third Galgorm Castle Times as we inform you about news from around the estate and update you with everything that’s happening at your golf club as we look ahead to another exciting year.

We are delighted to welcome our new partner Galgorm Resort & Spa to the estate to further cement our ongoing working relationship. Galgorm Resort & Spa will bring all their expertise and experience with news of a brand new restaurant at Galgorm Castle clubhouse.

Our members will benefit from what promises to be one of the best clubhouse restaurant and bars anywhere in the country. By partnering with Galgorm Resort & Spa, members will enjoy extra benefits and incentives as two great locations combine to create one of Ireland’s most desirable destinations.

We hope you enjoy your latest Galgorm Castle Times as we look forward to taking this exciting new journey together.

Gary Henry Managing Director, Galgorm Castle

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Welcome

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Lady Captain Lorraine Evans

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Captain Paul Hughes

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Galgorm Golf News

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Course update – Rodney McKay

11 Ross Oliver Q&A with new Director of Golf

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Galgorm Resort & Spa

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Around the Estate

18 Galgorm Castle and Ivory Pavilion

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New Clubhouse Restaurant

22 NI Open 2018

CREDITS

Photographs courtesy of: Kevin Markham, PressEye, GolfFile, Picture Magic Studios.

Design: EM Creative Produced by: PGPR

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LADY CAPTAIN’S MESSAGE

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Lorraine Evans

t was a privilege to be Lady Captain for 2017, especially in our 20th anniversary year. It was a very busy and exciting year, full of wonderful memories and I have been supported by a great team.

Our season started quickly, and I was keen to support the ladies’ teams with the Revive Active making it through to the third round. We also finished second to Malone in the Peggy Nelson final. A big thank you to all the ladies who gave up their time to represent Galgorm Castle.

I was heartened by the generous response from repeat and new sponsors in supporting our competitions throughout the year.

Lady Captain’s day in June was a lovely sunny day with many of the ladies wearing shorts and skorts.

Everyone was happy and smiling enjoying the day. It was a memorable day for me from start to the finish and one that I shall always fondly remember. Another special day was our first Lady President’s day in July.

Our club’s 20th anniversary dinner on 1st July was another hugely successful event, thanks to the organisation of Gary Henry and committee of Men/

Lady Captains and secretaries. It was very exciting going into the Castle for the first time for the reception and then to the beautiful Ivory Pavilion.

The NI Open once again proved a great success and many of our ladies assisted by marshalling spectators and updating the scoreboards. Many visitors commented to me how fantastic the course looked and played.

The weekend away saw 22 ladies enjoy their time at Nuremone where everyone had a ball. The weather certainly made it as we sat on the terrace and enjoyed drinks and each other’s company after the golf.

And honours were shared in the Annual Committee Match with Ballymena held at Galgorm.

I’ve have had an amazing year in the privileged position of Lady Captain and been part of a great working team. We work extremely well together to achieve what I believe is a warm, well run ladies club.

Three cheers to the ladies of Galgorm Castle Golf Club.

Lorraine Evans Lady Captain, Galgorm Castle Golf Club

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CAPTAIN’S MESSAGE

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Paul Hughes

t has been a privilege to be Captain of Galgorm Castle Golf Club 2017. I would like to thank the Past Captain, Ian Henry, for giving me this great honour and to the office bearers and committee for all their support and hard work.

It was a busy 20th anniversary year and duties started with the GUI inter club competitions. Thanks to everyone who gave up their time. Our Senior Cup team reached the regional final before narrowly losing to Royal Portrush. I wish all our teams every success in 2018.

In June, Phil Collins took the hard decision to leave Galgorm Castle after 17 years. I would like to wish Phil every success for the future. Ross Oliver took over in the new role as Director of Golf and I would like to thank him for all his support.

Every week I see first-hand the hard work and dedication of the greenstaff. Our head greenkeeper, Rodney McKay, has done a sterling job in presenting the course to such a high standard.

My Captain’s Day in June is a day I will never forget.

The support I received from the members was second

to none. Victoria and her team at the Eagle Bar and Grill did a great job throughout the entire day.

The mens’ and ladies’ clubs marked the 20th anniversary with a drinks reception in Galgorm Castle and a barbeque in the Ivory Pavilion. Thanks to the Lady Captain, Lorraine Evans, and her team for making the event the success it was.

The Northern Ireland Open keeps getting bigger and better every year and that’s down to the hard work of Gary Henry and his team. Thanks also to Brian Mercer, Jackie Neill, Neville Neill and Ronnie Taylor and their teams who all worked tirelessly.

Congratulations to Joshua Hill on winning the Ulster Under 14 Boys Order of Merit 2017 and Michael Dallat on gaining his card on the Alps Tour.

Finally, I would like to wish our incoming Captain, Peter Daly, every success in 2018. I am sure he will do an excellent job representing Galgorm Castle Golf Club.

Paul Hughes Captain, Galgorm Castle Golf Club

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Debbie McCooke

ACADEMY

Galgorm’s Centre of Excellence Galgorm Castle Academy’s latest chapter might well be the most exciting yet with coaching structures now in place to help develop the game at every level

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s Galgorm Castle celebrated 20 years of golf at the historic estate in 2017, work was completed on a range of projects, not least the Fun Golf Area, complete with six-hole short course and the must-play Himalayas Putting Green.

The floodlit driving range and short game academy are well-established, and it was the key changes in the coaching personnel that will help deliver a golfing centre of excellence at your club.

Former European Tour player Gareth Maybin is a great addition to the Galgorm coaching ticket. This is a unique opportunity for members and golfers across the province to tap into the invaluable coaching and advice only a touring professional at the top level can provide.

“I am delighted to be here at Galgorm Castle as part of an exceptionally strong team at one of the best coaching hubs in the country,” said Maybin.

“This is a very exciting time to be involved with everything that is hap-

pening at Galgorm Castle. The venue already enjoys an outstanding international reputation as the home of the NI Open and we provide unparalleled coaching opportunities while using the best all-round golfing facilities anywhere in Northern Ireland.”

Barrie McGoldrick, who served his time at Malone, joined in July 2017. He brings a wealth of experience on custom fitting. He coaches golfers of all abilities including professionals and his equipment technology knowledge is invaluable.

Galgorm uses Trackman launch monitor and is an official custom fit

HOPEFULLY OUR ACADEMY COACHES deliver better lessons than these guys…Ian Poulter, Martin Kaymer, Pádraig Harrington and Lee Westwood as you’ve never seen them before.

centre for TaylorMade and Cleveland/Srixon.

Deborah McCooke is another key member of the academy team as a PGA Level One and US Kids Golf. She has been heavily involved in assisting junior and ladies section coaching programmes.

Alistair McDiarmid is a PGA teaching professional with vast experience who has been involved with Galgorm since the beginning. He has built up a large client base and teaches golfers of all ability.

Jason Thompson is an integral member of the team and continues to play a key role within the golf operations and the successful running of the pro shop.

With all the necessary structures now in place, the person overseeing it all is Ross Oliver in his role as Galgorm Castle’s Director of Golf.

“There are so many aspects to the golf offering at Galgorm now. It is fair to say we provide golf and coaching of the highest order for every member of the family,” said Oliver.

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GALGORM CASTLE MEET THE PROS Name: Position: Age: Turned Pro: Joined Galgorm Castle:

Ross Oliver Director of Golf 30 2010 (+1) 2013

Name: Barrie McGoldrick Position: Assistant PGA Professional Age: 32 Turned Pro: 2013 (0) Joined Galgorm Castle: 2017 Name: Alistair McDiarmid Position: Teaching PGA Professional Age: 49 Turned Pro: 1995 (1) Joined Galgorm Castle: 1997 Name: Gareth Maybin Position: Coach Age: 37 Turned Pro: 2005 (+3) Joined Galgorm Castle: 2017

DRESS FOR SUCCESS IN 2018 Our Pro Shop stocks golf’s most popular brands. Make a visit to the shop part of your 2018 golfing season. Director of Golf Ross Oliver has picked out some highlights from the Spring/Summer collections that will be in stock.

SHOES The FootJoy Pro SL returns after dominating the market in 2017, the ultimate performance spikeless shoe. Timeless DryJoys Tour will also be in stock amongst the FJ range. With Adidas we’ll have the Tour 360 Boost 2.0, Adipower S Boost and the Adicross Classics. For the first time, UnderArmour Shoes will be available at Galgorm Castle - including the Spieth 2!

CLOTHING We have the latest UnderArmour, FootJoy, Adidas, ProQuip and Galvin Green apparel for 2018.

GALGORM CASTLE IS A TAYLORMADE SUREFIT CENTRE, book your custom fit for the new M3 and M4 woods and irons today!

You’ll be fitted by one of our resident PGA Professionals using our TrackMan launch monitor. Go on, what are you waiting for?

OPEN FIXTURES 2018 JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH Every Friday Ladies & Gents Open Stableford MARCH Friday 16th:

Ladies & Gents Open Stableford

APRIL Monday 2nd: L adies & Gents Open Stableford Tuesday 3rd: Ladies & Gents Open Stableford MAY Monday 7th: L adies & Gents Open Stableford Sunday 13th: US Kids Golf Tour Monday 28th: Ladies & Gents Open Stableford JUNE Monday 4th: ILGU Seniors (ILGU) Saturday 16th: Captain’s Day Friday 22nd: Lady Captain’s Day JULY Friday 13th: Ladies & Gents Open Stableford Tuesday 17th: NI Amateur Open Strokeplay AUGUST Monday 27th: Ladies & Gents Open Stableford SEPTEMBER Friday 7th: Irish Golfer Magazine Open NOVEMBER-MARCH Every Friday Ladies & Gents Open Stableford

ROSS’S PICKS: Trousers: UA Matchplay Taper – by far our most popular trouser!

Polo Shirt: Galvin Green Mayer – a classy polo with VENTIL8 fabric.

Midlayer: FootJoy Chillout – highly popular year on year!

CLUBS 2018 is all about TaylorMade M3 & M4 and the revolutionary TWISTFACE technology – book your custom fit today!

BALLS The TaylorMade TP5/X is a genuine rival to the seemingly untouchable Titleist ProV1/X and both will be available at your pro shop in 2018 along with the usual suspects from Titleist, including the new Tour Soft and Srixon’s popular AD333.

ACCESSORIES

We have a wide range of crest accessories available including ball markers, pitchforks, towels, headcovers and umbrellas. Ask your pro for more details.

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ON COURSE

Retaining Galgorm’s High Standards Head Greenkeeper Rodney McKay and his team have been working on a number of course projects through the winter

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algorm Castle is ranked as one of the country’s top parkland courses. It requires ongoing investment every year to maintain the high standard and reputation and this winter is no different with many projects ongoing by head greenkeeper Rodney McKay and his team.

Paths around the course are a key focus. The path at the second has been extended, a new path was created left of the third green, while the path at the fourth was extended.

The path from the sixth tee has also been extended and a new path created right of the eighth green. The path left of the ninth green has also been improved.

New paths have been introduced to the right of the 11th and 13th greens, while the path on 12 has been extended to the bridge. A new path has been constructed from the

14th tee to the back of the green, while the path at 15 has been improved and a new path has been introduced to the right of the 18th green.

This alone is considerable investment but crucial to the playability and aesthetic of the course.

McKay and his team continue to improve drainage throughout the course with deep thinning and sand dressing of all the fairways. Specific wet areas such as the 1st, 4th, 9th, 10th, 15th and 18th have received additional drainage and heavy sanding. Specific drainage measures have been carried out at the 10th green.

Tee boxes will undergo a programme of tining, overseeding and top dressing. The championship tee at the sixth has been enlarged to become more attractive and also improve the playability of the hole.

A new tee box on the 4th is being constructed directly behind the ladies’ tee, creating a new angle for general play and members’ competitions from the green and white tees.

Members can test themselves using the championship tee boxes during general play as many of our low handicap players do. Some championship tee boxes will also be used on one off occasions for member competitions.

Bunker maintenance has been another ongoing project winter with particular attention to the third and fifth. The bunker on the dog-leg of the third will be reshaped and the back lip of the bunker right of the fifth green has been reshaped.

Despite the challenging Irish weather, McKay and his team do a fantastic job presenting our championship course to the highest standard every year.

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IN FOCUS

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RODNEY MCKAY: HEAD GREENKEEPER

• T he paths have undoubtedly been one of the main focuses this winter. We improved paths to get golfers round the course easier and onto fairways. It helps aesthetically too.

•D rainage is never-ending. We had specialised machinery in to verti-drain all the fairways, a big project last November.

• T otally redesigned the championship tee at the sixth and in the process of building a new tee at the fourth, which will be used by our members and visitors, every day use.

• R edesigned two bunkers at the third and fifth, work at the third is due to get underway this week. Mainly reshaping the back of them so the white sand stands out more from the tee.

•W e look to keep the course and greens in great condition all year round.

• Y ou can’t sit still, we constantly keep improving and enhancing the course.

•M embers can assist greatly by repairing pitch marks to ensure consistently good putting surfaces.

Rodney McKay

NI OPEN PLAYER QUOTES ON GALGORM “The best greens on the Challenge Tour. I played European Tour last year and can’t remember greens like this, they are so pure.”

“The golf course can be set up long, but it’s class (whichever tees you play from) and the greens are perfect.”

“The greens are perfect, probably the best we’ve played all year.”

“The course was really good, in great condition. The fairways and greens are the very best and that’s what it’s all about.”

“The set up feels like a European Tour event… and the course is always in such good condition.”

- AUSTRIA’S LUCAS NEMEZ

- IRELAND’S GAVIN MOYNIHAN

- ENGLAND’S GARY KING

- GERMANY’S DOMINIC FOOS

- France’s Clément Sordet

MEMBERSHIP

PRO SHOP

BECOME A MEMBER OF GALGORM CASTLE

TOP QUALITY BRANDS AT GREAT PRICES

JOIN NOW!

GIFT VOUCHERS

Home of the Northern Ireland Open and one of Northern Ireland’s leading golf clubs…be part of it!

The perfect gift for the golfer in your life.

Adult Membership from £12.31pw

A round at the Home of the Northern Ireland Open.

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Young Adult Membership from £5.55pw Junior Membership from £2.99pw

GREEN FEE VOUCHERS CUSTOM FITTING Get the perfect set of clubs for you!

RESIDENT PGA PROFESSIONALS

Flexible payment options available

Expert advice for all your golfing needs.

Contact the team now for more information on: T: (028) 2564 6161 E: golf@galgormcastle.com

Contact the team now for more information on: T: (028) 2564 6161 E: golf@galgormcastle.com

ACADEMY

THINKING OF STARTING GOLF? FUN GOLF AREA Our newest offering, a 6-hole Pitch & Putt course and 36-hole Himalayas Putting Green. Great fun for all the family and golfers of all abilities. Check it out!

INTRODUCTION TO GOLF FOR LADIES Introductory coaching for ladies, give golf a go!

JUNIOR GOLF ACADEMY Weekly classes and holiday camps all year round!

PROFESSIONAL TUITION 3 resident PGA Professionals to help you game!

CONTACT THE TEAM NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION ON t: (028) 2564 6161 e: golf@galgormcastle.com w: www.galgormcastle.com

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GALGORM CASTLE: DIRECTOR OF GOLF

ROSS

OLIVER Ross Oliver has slotted easily into his role as Director of Golf at Galgorm Castle and is looking forward to the new season and working closely with the members

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ith a new coaching structure introduced in 2017, Galgorm Castle is now one of Northern Ireland’s premier golfing destinations with a top-class team on hand to help and assist players of all levels.

Ross Oliver has been with Galgorm Castle for almost five years, and in 2017 he was appointed the new Director of Golf. It’s an exciting time for Galgorm Castle and Oliver talks about all things golf; from updates on the course and plans for 2018, to welcoming former European Tour player Gareth Maybin to the team.

As he says himself, no two days are the same at Galgorm Castle but one thing is certain, this Ballymena venue continues to go from strength

to strength with many new and exciting initiatives to take place during the season ahead.

WHAT MAKES GOLF SO SPECIAL AT GALGORM CASTLE? We’ve come a long way in a short time since golf was first played at this historic estate 20 years ago.

Today we are recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s top-ranked parklands and enjoy an international reputation as the home of the Northern Ireland Open. From the moment members and visitors drive through the walled entrance they will see Galgorm Castle today offers so much more than just golf, but to me it’s our continual progress that makes us stand out. Annual

improvements and being viewed by the golfing public as a ‘forward thinking’ venue makes me proud to be a part of things here.

SO HOW DOES GALGORM STAND UP AGAINST THE COMPETITION? We are consistently featured at the top of industry rankings and alongside established member clubs such as Malone, Belvoir Park, Royal Belfast plus Lough Erne. We may not possess the heritage – in golfing terms – of the three Belfast clubs mentioned but to be considered in the same breath is testament to Simon Gidman’s design plus the ongoing work from our greenkeepers and reinvestment we make to the championship layout.

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YOU MENTIONED THE NI OPEN, WHAT’S ALL THE FUSS ABOUT? The NI Open is considered one of the best stop offs on the European Challenge Tour circuit. Every year we attract record crowds, there is no other tournament like it on the calendar. The NI Open is a golf tournament for all the family and a genuine homegrown success story. Without the help and support from our members, none of it would be possible.

AND WHAT ABOUT THE PLAYERS WHO COMPETE HERE AT GALGORM? You only have to take their word for it to see what they think of our course, especially the greens, which come in for special mention every time and is a real testament to the expertise and hard work of our greenkeepers.

THERE SEEMS TO BE A LOT OF WORK HAPPENING ON THE COURSE? Every year we continue to invest and improve our product. Despite the economically straitened times, we have been fortunate enough to continue reinvesting in the course, which also benefits from the USGA spec greens and tees that play well all year round.

Rodney McKay, and his team make continual improvements to help course drainage and have enhanced playability with new paths, additional tee boxes and shaping fairways to make the course playable for golfers of all abilities 12 months of the year. We’ll also continue to adjust areas of long grass that may be more in play than originally anticipated, to enhance playability and enjoyment whilst retaining its aesthetic appeal.

ARE THERE SOME NEW FACES IN THE ACADEMY TEAM? Former head pro Phil Collins

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stepped down from the role after 17 years of dedicated service.

However, we are fortunate to have a brand new coaching structure in place that includes former European Tour player Gareth Maybin and PGA Professional Barrie McGoldrick.

It’s an exciting time for us all.

I have taken on a new Director of Golf role and manage the traditional duties of being a head professional, while accounting for the additional golfing experiences at Galgorm plus coaching. Other duties include overseeing the dayto-day running of golf operations across the estate; at the pro shop and driving range, the Fun Golf Area and McQuillans halfway hut while also coordinating the coaching programmes.

GREAT NEWS TO HAVE GARETH MAYBIN AT GALGORM? Yes, Gareth is a great asset to the team and he coaches all levels, from beginners to tour professionals. He offers a unique opportunity for golfers to tap into the invaluable coaching and advice only a touring professional at the top level can provide. Gareth works from his teaching studio and makes use our TrackMan launch monitor. He has been attracting clientele from across the province, which is exactly what we’d hoped would happen - more people visiting Galgorm Castle and making use of our topclass facilities.

HOW ELSE CAN MEMBERS IMPROVE THEIR GAME? We have a number of programmes in place. Free member clinics throughout the year cover all aspects of the game. The Ladies Introduction to Golf programme has been very successful and has attracted new members in recent

years. The Junior Girls Coaching Programme has seen dozens of young girls getting into golf.

Debbie McCooke is a Level One PGA and US Kids Golf coach and has been instrumental in driving our junior girls’ programme.

We are also looking to introduce a similar cadet series for junior boys at Galgorm. These are areas where support from our membership is vital. We are fortunate to have a full range of facilities for all our members to use. The six-hole pitch & putt course is the perfect place to gain confidence in your wedgeplay,

plus we have the short game area, driving range and full access to our team of PGA professionals.

IT’S QUITE THE COACHING TICKET HERE AT GALGORM? We have a genuine centre of excellence now. I am joined by fellow PGA Professionals Barrie (McGoldrick) and Alistair (McDiarmid) plus Debbie (McCooke) who has aspirations to begin her PGA training soon and with Gareth now here we have one of the best coaching setups anywhere in Northern Ireland.

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AND WHO IS CURRENTLY FLYING THE FLAG FOR GALGORM CASTLE? Michael Dallat turned pro this month after winning his card to play on the Alps tour, a continental equivalent of the PGA EuroPro Tour. Michael has done some great work with Gareth over the autumn/ winter.

Joshua Hill continues to develop and our lowest handicap junior won the Ulster Under 14 Boys Order of Merit 2017.

We also made our mark in the Senior Cup by reaching the final of the Ulster section before losing

to Royal Portrush in extra holes, while our young Fred Daly team got to the semi-final of the plate, watch out for them as they continue to develop.

IS MEMBERSHIP OPEN AT GALGORM CASTLE? Although we have a buoyant membership across all categories, we are still open for membership.

Galgorm Castle is very much a members’ club and its membership base has remained at approximately 650 across the different catego-

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ries. As mentioned, a number of programmes and initiatives are in place to help introduce new people and to grow the game, particularly within the ladies’ and junior sections.

Our membership rates stand up very well against other venues we get compared with, especially considering other golf clubs don’t necessarily have the complete package and facilities that we do nor do they have to charge VAT on their subscriptions – a real bug bear of ours. We also operate flexible ways to manage your membership.

WHAT IS THE GOLFING AT GALGORM INITATIVE? Galgorm Castle has worked closely with Galgorm Resort for many years and we offer some of the best play and stay packages anywhere in the country. Galgorm Resort & Spa is a renowned venue, while Galgorm Castle enjoys a strong international reputation by hosting the likes of the NI Open every year. Combining the two offerings makes Golfing at Galgorm hugely desirable and a great way to attract

new revenue for the business so we can reinvest in the product.

WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING ACROSS THE ESTATE? Although 2017 marked 20 years of golf at Galgorm there is so much more to do and experience away from the fairways. Members and visitors can tap into the hugely popular Creative Gardens, the Ivory Pavilion or enjoy great food at the clubhouse bar & restaurant. Most of our members will be aware that our long-term partners at Galgorm Resort & Spa will be taking over the clubhouse bar & restaurant operation very soon and this is a very exciting project fro everyone associated with Galgorm Castle.

Galgorm Castle also has the Fairy Trail that runs out of the Fun Golf Area. It doesn’t matter what your reason for visiting Galgorm Castle, we genuinely do have something for everyone.

AND FINALLY… HOW ARE YOU ENJOYING THE NEW DIRECTOR OF GOLF ROLE? I’m loving it, we’ve a great team and no two days are ever the same. There are many new and exciting projects taking place and we are set for another stellar year. I’ve really enjoyed spending a bit more time in the shop with our members than I had done over the last couple of years and I want to keep doing this and ensure we are delivering an excellent service to the membership. I’m particularly looking forward to working with my coaching colleagues as we help you, the members, with all aspects of your game, either through one-to-one coaching or the programmes we have in place.

It would be great to see a club team win an Ulster or All Ireland pennant this year and I hope we can do our bit to assist in this. So here’s to a successful 2018!

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GALGORM RESORT & SPA The ultimate in relaxation and luxury wellness

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erfectly positioned just a few minutes away from Galgorm Castle is Galgorm Resort & Spa, home to the unique Thermal Spa Village; the first of its kind in Ireland. The idyllic woodland location along the River Maine inspired the resort to create a space where indoors meet outdoors. Local stone, natural wood and a palette of colours drawn from nature all combine to create a feeling of restfulness and calm.

Allow our award-winning spa facilities, professional service and prestigious product selection to guide you on a journey of rediscovery. Invigorate your senses, awaken your mind and truly relax your body and soul. The resort includes nine different saunas, one is used to perform the Galgorm ‘Celtic Sauna

Ritual’, a unique take on the Finnish aufguss sauna ritual.

The Riverside yoga studio, snow cabin, indoor pool and infinity hydrotherapy pool, experience shower, water beds, outdoor Jacuzzi pool and hot tub, Beltane hot tub and fire as well as the relaxing orangery all provide a plethora of options to evoke a tranquility during your Thermal Village Experience. Elements Spa Café, housed in the Halo Dome and one of only five in the World, is situated within the Thermal Village and offers a relaxing environment for a nourishing interlude during your journey of rediscovery.

Alongside these great facilities the resort offers an extensive menu of bespoke treatments in one of our 13 treatment rooms. We have seven

single occupancy treatment rooms, two doubles, hammam and two hands-off treatment rooms (Cleo bath & Mud Serail).

Our exclusive membership provides access to one of the finest luxury spa resorts in the UK and Ireland and offers members access to the best advisors in wellness, fitness and health - a genuine 360° approach to wellbeing.

A luxury spa with a prominent fitness space, Galgorm Fitness Suite houses ‘best in breed’ technology and equipment, helping

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GOLFING AT GALGORM

members to restore the mind and find a healthier approach to fitness and wellbeing. Members have access to a whole team of specialists, each expert in their different disciplines. Together, they can develop bespoke personal training packages to enhance both the body and mind, enabling you to take a holistic approach to your journey toward optimal wellbeing.

With a full repertoire at the members’ disposal, a regime can be swiftly implemented, carefully followed and closely monitored. We also offer a comprehensive class timetable to ensure that we have something for everyone, whatever your taste or current fitness level.

Varied, interesting and motivational in style, classes are designed to offer encouragement from your instructor and your fellow participants. From the gentle mind-body formats through to the pulsating

HIIT class, you’ll find a theme and intensity you can manage.

While Thermal Spa Village Membership offers access to award-winning spa facilities and the best advisors, there is a strong focus on the social element of wellbeing, with Exclusive Members’ Evenings held regularly, affording members the opportunity to enjoy the full array of facilities that Galgorm Resort & Spa have to offer, all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Galgorm Resort & Spa was delighted to be crowned Global Spa of the Year 2017 at the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

FOR MORE DETAILS ON MEMBERSHIP Please contact Karen Clifford T: +44 (0)28 2588 2565 E: kclifford@galgorm.com W: galgorm.com

GALGORM CASTLE members receive 10% discount on Spa Membership at Galgorm Resort & Spa. PLUS Look out for an exclusive 2-for-1 offer in your 2018 Member Rewards Booklet; a Thermal Village Experience for two with lunch at Gillies Grill. *From £75 Midweek / £85 Weekend

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AROUND THE

ESTATE

There is so much more to Galgorm Castle these days than just golf. The estate has many attractions and activities that appeals to all the family. There is also the promise of the exciting new restaurant at the clubhouse as Galgorm Castle has teamed up with Galgorm Resort & Spa to bring an exciting new venture in 2018. Watch this space!

BUSINESS COURTYARD

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ocal and international businesses are based at the Courtyard Business Park as tenants recognise the unique and desirable setting within the Galgorm Castle estate.With excellent transport links to all parts of the province, the Courtyard Business Park is a popular choice with the business community.

Tenants include; NFU, Fisher Law, Fit Cube, Space Studio Yoga and Galgorm Hair & Make Up, illustrating the varied nature of clients who have made the Business Courtyard their home.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS galgormcastle.com/the-courtyard or contact the team on (028) 256 46161.

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CREATIVE GARDENS

CREATIVE GARDENS opened for business at Galgorm in 2014 and has quickly become one of the most popular garden centres in the province.

Customers travel from far and wide to visit Creative Gardens, located in the shadow of the estate’s Jacobean castle. Creative Gardens is fully stocked with great gift ideas and all the plants and gardening equipment and accessories you could ever need. This really is a one-stop shop and after the potting and planting has been sourced, make sure to find time for a spot of lunch at the Café.

The Creative Gardens Café is a buzz of activity as visitors come to sample all the homemade delights; from delicious scone and desserts to tray bakes and cakes. Food is served throughout the day, from breakfast, through to lunch and evening meals in summer.

CREATIVE GARDENS OPENING HOURS Mon-Sat 09.30 to 17.30 Sunday 12.30 to 17.30 (The Café closes 30 mins earlier on each day)

FUN GOLF AREA

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he Fun Golf Area is a great addition to the golf offering on the Galgorm Estate. Ideal for all members of the family to try the game, and it really doesn’t matter if you are a beginner just starting out or a seasoned campaigner looking to sharpen-up your short game.

The six-hole pitch and putt course is great fun and geared towards families. It’s also a great way to introduce kids, or adults, to golf.

Be sure to have a go on the Himalayas Putting Green too. This scaled replica of the famous St Andrews attraction will test your putting skills, while having plenty of fun at the same time.

FAIRY TRAIL

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he Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail is one of the newest additions to the estate when launched in 2017. The Brilliant Trails team have a number of different interactive journeys to take families around the estate.

Along the way there are some amazing sights and fascinating stories to be told about the history of Galgorm Castle, which dates back to 1607. Each trail takes approximately 60-90 minutes

and has its own map packed with information.

The Discover Galgorm Castle Family Trail has 24 markers spread across the estate. Along the

way children and adults can learn facts about the native wildlife and local history. They will also find out about the characters who lived and

worked on the estate over the years.

The Galgorm Castle Fairy Trail is the latest addition to the Galgorm Castle Trails experience.

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THE IVORY

PAVILION A simply stunning venue set within the grounds of the historic Galgorm Castle

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he Ivory Pavilion is one of the most popular wedding and event venues in Northern Ireland. It’s a venue of unique distinction set in the most idyllic surroundings.

It’s the place where modern day luxury meets the magic and mystique of the Jacobean Castle that dates back to 1618, where ensure guests enjoy a truly unique experience.

Opened in May 2016, the Ivory Pavilion has created a unique level of hospitality and welcome when hosting con-

ferences, seminars, weddings and events. Such a high level of service comes as standard.

“We believe that an event, whether it’s work or play, should always be an occasion,” said Laura Armstrong, the Ivory Pavilion’s Sales and Marketing Manager. “We focus on every detail to ensure all our guests experience the excitement and awe that only a genuinely special event can deliver, especially when it takes place in such an exquisite setting.”

Situated within the gardens

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of the 15th Century Galgorm Castle, The Ivory Pavilion boasts state-of-the-art, purpose-built facilities, which fuse seamlessly with the historical architecture of the castle to set a new benchmark in the luxury venues market.

The dedicated Meetings and Special Events team have a wealth of experience and are on hand every step of the way to ensure the perfect, bespoke occasion is created every time.

The venue has also teamed up with Jane’s Kitchen and French Village, two of Northern Ireland’s award-winning catering enterprises, who are innova-

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tive and passionate about food.

“They create breathtaking dishes using locally sourced products where possible. Wedding and event meals are prepared and cooked freshly on site to provide clients and guests with the very best culinary experience,” adds Armstrong.

The Ivory Pavilion, Your Castle Your Day. CONTACT Tel: 07468 493 644 Web: theivorypavilion.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ theivorypavilion Twitter: twitter.com/IvoryPavilion

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SERVING UP A TREAT AT GALGORM It’s a case of watch this space as an exciting new development is in the offing with a brand new clubhouse restaurant and bar at Galgorm Castle in 2018

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algorm Castle members and visitors are in for a special 2018 with news that the Ballymena venue is to partner the renowned Galgorm Resort & Spa to create one of the best restaurants in Northern Ireland.

Galgorm Resort & Spa is one of the industry leaders and pioneers within the hospitality sector with an international reputation for excellence. Now, in an exciting new venture in partnership with Galgorm Castle, a brand new restaurant will open at the clubhouse. “The vision is to create not just one of the best clubhouse restau-

All change in the clubhouse bar and restaurant

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NEED TO KNOW: - Restaurant closes for refurbishment Monday 5th March - Refurbishment to take 10-12 weeks

rants in the country, but a restaurant that serves only the finest ingredients and offers something for everyone,” said a member of the Galgorm team working on the project.

Significant investment is being made in the project that will see a brand new look and feel introduced. Detailed planning is ongoing at present with new concepts, designs and themes being worked on.

It will be business as usual on the ground floor after upgrade work has taken place in the pro shop area, which will be open as normal. Access to locker rooms,

breakout areas and car park will be accessible as normal with minimal to no disruption to members.

The new restaurant will remain at the heart of the clubhouse and will first and foremost be for the members, and always with the members in mind. New menus are currently being work on too by the team of chefs and full details will be announced in the coming weeks and months. Members incentives at the new restaurant will also be in place.

It’s exciting times ahead with the promise of one of the best restaurants in the province coming to Galgorm Castle.

- Members catered for through extended McQuillan’s halfway house - A ll play to start at 10th and finish at the 9th, adjacent to McQuillans from Monday 5th March - H ot and cold drinks and snacks still available at McQuillan’s before and after your round - Creative Gardens will be open as normal and is already a popular spot for members - Galgorm Castle members enjoy a special 10% discount at Gillies’ Bar at Galgorm Resort & Spa during the restaurant refurbishment

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Horan and Modest! on board for

2018 NI OPEN Niall Horan and Modest! Golf are back on board for this year’s Northern Ireland Open at Galgorm Castle, which has returned to a traditional 72-hole strokeplay format

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he NI Open has evolved into a global event since its inception as a European Tour Group event in 2013. Modest!

Golf and Horan return for a third consecutive year and record crowds are expected once more when the European Challenge Tour’s most popular event takes place at Galgorm Castle from August 16-19.

None of the NI Open success would be possible without the army of Galgorm Castle members, who every year give up their time to help marshal, update scoreboards and help organisers at every turn.

Over 43,000 spectators came through the gates in 2017 to witness the drama unfold before Robin Sciot-Siegrist from France was

crowned champion in the Shootout Sunday format. This year the NI Open will return to the traditional 72-hole strokeplay format, which ties in with the long-term vision for future stagings of the event.

“We are delighted to announce Modest! Golf ’s return to the Northern Ireland Open for the third year.

The event has grown every year and we look forward to linking up with Galgorm Castle and the Challenge Tour once again,” said Horan, who is golf enthusiast, who enjoys getting back to Galgorm each year.

The 2018 NI Open will be another family friendly event with a

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TOURNAMENT GOLF AT GALGORM

NI OPEN 2017 Robin Sciot-Siegrist (France) 2016 Ryan Fox (Nzl) 265 -19 2015 Clément Sordet (Fra) 267 -17 2014 Joakim Lagergren (Swe) 271 -13 2013 Daan Huizing (Nld) 271 -13 2012 Paul Reed (Eng) 204 -12 2011 Chris Hanson (Eng) 202 -14 2010 James Hepworth (Eng) 201 -15

host of entertainment to take place away from the fairways. This year a dedicated Show Stage will form part of the NI Open village and will host a number of acts and Q&A sessions with leading figures during the week.

Further details will be confirmed closer to the time.

The GolfNow Junior NI Open proved a big hit last year and will showcase the junior talent for a second time when played over the six-hole course at the Galgorm Cas-

tle’s Fun Golf Area. The NI Open is hugely important event for the development of Ireland’s professionals starting out in their career and looking to make their mark in the game.

“For years the NI Open has provided Irish players much-needed playing opportunities,” added Gary Henry, Managing Director Galgorm Castle. “The NI Open also opens so many doors to other events across Europe by way of reciprocal invites, which helps players put together a

TOURISM IRELAND: PROMOTING THE NI OPEN

Tourism Ireland also plays a key role in the success of the NI Open, especially when promoting golf on the island of Ireland to an international audience. Aubrey Irwin, Tourism Ireland, said: “The Northern Ireland Open is a wonderful event, giving us an opportunity to showcase our world-class golf courses to a huge number of golfing enthusiasts across the world.

“There is tremendous interest in this event, as part of the European Challenge Tour series, and Tourism Ireland estimates that highlights of the event will be broadcast to approximately 540 million homes, via Sky Sports and their 26 international broadcast partners, and through digital media. The 2018 Northern Ireland Open will once again shine a spotlight on golf here, helping us to highlight our superb parkland courses, which complement the world-class links for which Northern Ireland is known around the world.”

NI AMATEUR OPEN STROKEPLAY 2017 Colin Fairweather (Knock) 146 2016 Jamie Fletcher (Warrenpoint) 141 2015 Tiarnan McLarnon (Massereene) 137 2014 Aaron Grant (Dundalk) 140 2013 Dermot McElroy (Ballymena) 277 2012 Cormac Sharvin (Ardglass) 215 2011 Ciaran Molloy (Ardee) 280 2010 Reeve Whitson (Mourne) 143 2009 Simon McConnell (Ballyclare) 69 ULSTER YOUTHS 2006 Gareth Shaw (Lurgan) 287

playing schedule for the season.”

Horan added: “This Challenge Tour event is so important to us as a business,” added Horan. “Year on year, this tour develops the next generation of European Tour winners and Major champions and we can’t wait for the NI Open to play its part, both this year and in future years.

“We have lots of plans with Galgorm Castle to develop this event even further over the coming years.”

THE NI OPEN continues to be free to enter

for all the family. To get your tickets for the 2018 event, simply register online at niopen.golf

Galgorm Castle Golf Club Galgorm, Ballymena, County Antrim Northern Ireland, BT42 1HL T 028 256 46161 F 028 25 651151 E golf@galgormcastle.com

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