Strandhill Golf Course is located in Sligo in the west of Ireland, under the shadow of the impressive Knocknarea, to the south of Sligo Bay. The club was founded in 1931 as a nine-hole golf course, it was redesigned in 1939 by John McAlister remaining as a nine hole. The present 18-hole course was opened in 1973, and was designed by a number of the members who worked together, and the result is an interesting and creative course. This links course is a par 70 and measures 5,979 yards from the blue tees.
As is the manner of a links course, the natural features of the terrain are utilised to create a course that sits harmoniously with the landscape making it most out of its surroundings. Features of the course include, imposing sand dunes, exciting and undulating greens, they can be severe at times, a number of unforgiving shots, shortcuts and fairways. Then you have the natural elements that also come into play, wind can be a serious issue here. There are some very interesting and quirky holes here, the opening ones are especially strong, with a number of them playing along the seashore with some spectacular views, and the end holes are strong too. There are four par 3’s but only one par 5 on the course. With no shot being the same, it is a course that presents the player with a range of different challenges. Accuracy is definitely the key here, you will be well rewarded whereas wayward shots be be severely punished. Owing to the number of blind shots alone, it might be best to take a caddy with you.
The course is in great condition and well maintained. The sandy greens are
- immaculate,
- some well protected by bunkers,
- and they run true and fast,
- the sloping and open fairways can be like rollercoasters, up and down,
- the rough is heavy and punishable.