PGA National Slieve Russell – DG IRELAND 2021
Editor, Kevin Markham
As swashbuckling parklands go, few can match PGA National Slieve Russell as it flashes over a Co. Cavan countryside of rolling hills and lakes.
This is one of Ireland’s top championship parklands and it has the languid pace and acres of space which make inland golf so very embracing.
As part of a resort, with a well known four star hotel, visitors will enjoy superb facilities and a warm welcome.
The prize, though, is the par 72, 6,500 yard course (middle tees). The 1st hole eases you in, but that’s as generous as it gets… the par four 2nd is Index 1. It drives over a lake, over a river and doglegs up to a high green. Thereafter the pace rarely eases off.
Paddy Merrigan designed the course in 1992, employing the hypnotic rolling drumlins and 50 acres of lakes and streams to full and glorious effect.
There are countless strong holes but the stretch from 11 to 13 is sensational, with the allure and danger of Lough Rud fully employed. Perhaps the greatest testament to Merrigan’s work is that this plush course feels so very natural.
Favourite Hole: The par three 11th hits down to a green fronted by water and surrounded by bunkers. It’s a beauty.
What’s in the Bag? Accuracy off the tee is crucial.
