Ballyliffin new and improved Old Links

Thanks to its remote setting on the rugged and picturesque Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, Ballyliffin Golf Club has long been one of Ireland's hidden golf gems. But in recent years the status of this links gem has grown immensely. And 2006 marked a pivotal year for Ballyliffin, with the re-opening of the Old LInks, which had been closed for major enhancement and upgrading, thanks to the handy work of Nick Faldo.

Six-time major winner Nick Faldo has had strong ties with the club for a number of years. “I first visited Ballyliffin back in the early nineties and I’d only intended to play the front nine but I enjoyed it so much, that I just had to stay for the full eighteen. " His company, Faldo Design, was a natural for the renovation project, which Nick himself devoted great energies.

"I have worked hard to help the Old Links realise its full potential. We have completely revised the course’s bunkering and added a variety of strategic challenges. I also believe that we have succeeded in emphasising the natural beauty that this course has always had in abundance. I would especially like to thank Ballyliffin Golf Club and Ballyliffin Lodge for their hospitality in hosting Team Faldo this week; I know that each one of them has benefited from their time here and enjoyed the unique atmosphere at this wonderful place.”

Nick spent 4 days over the summer of 2006, to officially launch the new and improved Old Course. He was in good company, accompanied by elite members of Team Faldo,his youth academy, whom NIck schooled on the skills required to play traditional links golf. Nick and the team relished their days at Ballyliffin where he relaxed in an environment he was obviously comfortable in. The Faldo team stayed at the Ballyliffin Lodge and Spa, sponsors of the event, and thanked both the club and hotel for their overwhelming hospitality.

Rory McIlroy, Team Faldo member and current Irish Amateur Champion, commented: “I’d played the Old Links at Ballyliffin before Nick renovated the course; the changes that he’s made are quite subtle but demand some very inventive shots. From the back tees it’s much tougher now and I think the changes are fantastic. I’ve been out on the range with Nick and I played the course with him yesterday. He has been helping me focus on links golf, particularly my shots around the green and getting used to running the ball more. It’s been ideal preparation for the Irish Amateur Close Championship this week.”

Faldo is very proud of the alterations and improvements made to The Old Links and vowed to return to Ballyliffin in 2007. If you would like to experience the growing legend that is Ballyliffin, whether on the Old LInks or the equally impressive Glashedy Links, let Ireland Adventures organize a custom tour that takes in these great courses.