Saturday, February 23: I was able to play the European Club on Thursday, where we will be playing the Carey Cup matches in April. Let me tell you....I am really happy we are playing match play. On the front nine, you really have to know where you are going. It is very tight. A lot of trouble, well, everywhere!! The bunkers, if you hit your ball in the bunker you are playing out sideways. Other than that on the front nine it is fine!!
The back nine runs along the water, and they are just some of the most unbelievable holes and views I have ever seen. The wind blows sideways every day and the club is really looking forward to having us there. It is going to be a challenge, and once again I am glad it is a match play event.
Friday was a bit different, because I didn't touch a golf club. I took the entire day off and just went to the gym at Carton House and was able to get some nice work in, and also went to a concert, at the O2 Arena in Dublin. Pat took me to see the Killers, who put on an amazing performance and I really enjoyed myself. We went with two of Pat's buddies, who like Pat are huge Killers fans. I was able to listen to some great music and experience Friday nightlife in the city.
I woke up early this morning on Saturday and went to play the K Club, the site of the 2006 Ryder Cup. The course was top of the line in class and service. The only poor thing that went on today was that it started snowing while we were playing...I felt like I was right at home. They have two courses at the facility and not only were the members friendly, but they were out there in snow laughing and enjoying themselves! On a day where golfers typically don't leave their house back in America, the Irish go and play. We were able to play the Ryder Cup course, and what a piece of property it is! It is more of an American-style course and very different from all the others courses I have been able to play over here.
I am finally off to Spain tomorrow morning. I am flying to London for a three-hour layover then off to Spain into the warm weather. I will have two practice rounds before the start of the tournament on Wednesday. I am looking forward to getting over there and playing some more golf and experiencing another new culture.
Thanks again to Pat and his family for letting me stay the week and to everyone back home that made this trip possible. Thank you!
