THE PRACTICE ACADEMY

The long wait is over! Donaghadee Golf Club’s new Practice Academy is being launched on Wednesday, 30th June. The uniquely designed teaching and practice facility, aimed at developing the short-game of players of all ages and handicaps, is unrivalled across County Down; marking a very special moment in our club’s illustrious 111 year history.

The Practice Academy, designed by leading course architect Howard Swan of Swan Golf Designs, boasts up to 9 holes ideal for perfecting the short-game of even the most experienced players. This fantastic addition to Donaghadee’s superb par 71 main course, features a double green designed, constructed and bunkered to the most stringent USGA specifications, providing the perfect venue for introducing and developing newcomers to the sport. Additionally, the specially designed six holes on the outfield of the course double as a short range, enabling players to develop all areas of their game.

The creation of the Practice Academy was made possible by generous support and funding from Sport N.I., who recognise the need, particularly among junior golfers in the North Down area, for a development facility of this calibre and unique design.

Speaking of the launch, Club Captain Jeff Aiken said, “We are very excited to be launching the Practice Academy. We have many exciting competitions and fun events planned, and we look forward to the full use of the facility by all our members and visitors alike.”

Official Opening Ceremony
The Donaghadee Golf Club Practice Academy will be officially opened at a special invitation only ceremony on Wednesday 30th June 2010.

The event will begin at 2pm, when guests will be able to view the Practice Academy before the cutting of the ribbon by renowned Northern Irish golfer Norman Drew, and the hitting of the first ball by his son Gordon. Guests will then round off the celebration of the Practice Academy opening with light refreshments in the clubhouse.

Norman Drew is famed for his short game and his son Gordon is the Club Professional, making Mr. Drew a very fitting guest of honour to open the Practice Academy, which is the ideal facility for developing the short game of golfers of all ages and handicaps.

Members’ Celebration Event
All Donaghadee members and their partners are invited to celebrate the opening of the Practice Academy at a special event on the evening of Friday 2nd July.

To help mark the opening of the Practice Academy, a fun 9 hole competition will be held during the daytime of Friday 2nd July, with the winner announced at the special celebration event that evening.

The fantastic evening event will kick off around 7:30pm with a delicious hog roast followed by a disco in the clubhouse. Tickets for this event cost £5 and are strictly on a ‘first come first served’ basis, so call into the office today to reserve your place at this truly exciting occasion in our club’s history!