Rosslare GC is a links style course located just outside Rosslare, Co. Wexford, Ireland. It is located just a couple of miles from Rosslare Harbour , conveniently located for a final game of golf before boarding the night ferry back to the UK.
The course is a par 72, conventionally structured layout comprising 4 par 3s, 10 par 4s and 4 par 5s. It is 6,702 yards from the back Blue tees and 6,245 yards off the Green tees, which I played from, (equivalent to the Yellow tees in the UK). However, the SSS of 69 is three shots less than par!
The course was established in 1905. The famous Hawtree & Taylor golf course architects were commissioned in 1926-1828 to design the 18 hole course at 5,800 yards, since extended. In 1992 an additional 9 hole course was added.
The course meanders away from the clubhouse and returns to the clubhouse following an approximate figure of 8 pattern.
While several holes run alongside Rosslare Bay the sea is not generally visible from the tees or fairways due to high banks which protect the course from erosion.
I played the course in late October 2018, in moderately blustery/overcast conditions. The course and greens had recently been verti drained in preparation for winter. The fairways were firm, very undulating and a little bumpy in places , but the course was very playable.
Some blind tee shots are required but the driving lines are generally obvious and the landing areas generous. Apart from one poor tee shot on the 3rd hole, I drove the ball well but not overly long, enabling a good score on a course never previously played!
The greens, generally large, shapely, and undulating, were mostly raised above the fairways involving uphill approach shots which needed to be carried up to the greens otherwise the ball didn't run up!
The par 3s were a good challenge!
The greens were a good pace but because of the recent maintenance work were difficult to read. My putting stats were OK, only two three putts!
The course is ranked number 49 in the top 100 Irish golf courses. Evidence of a very respectable challenge! A good club to visit if visiting South East Ireland.
The midweek green fee was 30 Euro for the October to December period. It rises to 40 Euro for their high season, May to September.
The pro shop and catering staff were very welcoming and helpful! The fish chowder and soda bread was wonderful! Better and cheaper than the one at Killarney GC!
Date Friday, 23, November 2018
