 Waterville Golf Links in Kerry embarks on a new chapter in its fabled history early this year when the venerable Eddie Hackett masterpiece undergoes some well-planned improvements. Site of various European PGA Tour Events, dating back to 1974, Waterville is considered one of the finest golf links in the world. Consistently ranked among the Top 5 courses in Ireland, Waterville was founded in 1889 along Ballinskelligs Bay, fronting the Atlantic Ocean.
The transformation of the original 9-hole layout at Waterville was the pet project of John A Mulcahy. The US entrepreneur engaged Hackett, the legendary Irish golf architect and Claude Harmon, former US Masters Champion and celebrated Winged Foot Professional. The team of Hackett and Harmon created a classic championship links that has tested some of the best players in the world. The new work at Waterville will be in consultation with Tom Fazio, one of the world's foremost experts in updating traditional golf courses. "Everything about Waterville is truly spectacular" said Fazio. "The setting is one of the best we have ever seen for golf".
Tour professionals, Sam Snead, Gary Player and Nick Faldo have all experienced Waterville's beauty and complexity, while in recent years, Tiger Woods, Mark O'Meara, David Duval, Ernie Els and the late Payne Stewart have used Waterville as a tune-up before travelling to the British Open. Waterville features some of the most picturesque holes in links golf, including the crescent-shaped third hole, a 417-yard trek along the banks of the River Inny, as well as the challenging 582-yard closing hole, which hugs the roaring Atlantic Ocean.
"We are thrilled that Tom Fazio has agreed to advise us as we begin this exciting undertaking", said Noel Cronin, Manager of Waterville Golf Links. "Waterville has withstood the test of time and we look forward to ensuring its integrity with this project". "Everyone involved with the links has an incredible passion for Waterville's special place in the game," added Fazio. "Management is absolutely comitted to preserving Waterville's unique heritage and we are honoured that they have asked us to assist them with their endeavour".
Fazio has assisted many of the world's leading clubs, including Winged Foot, Pine Valley and Augusta National. The Waterville project is expected to be completed by the Spring of 2004 and regular season play will not be affected. |
