Tickled Pink at Rosapenna

After the epic day at Narin & Portnoo, the Fairways To Heaven group along with PGA Professional and former tour pro Randy Joyner of Tour Techniques, trekked north to the equally stunning Rosapenna for another day of spectacular Irish golf and hospitality. We're really not sure why a 129 year old golf property in Northwest Ireland would have an Italian name that literally translates to "Pink Pen," because the links at Rosapenna are as purely Irish and green as they come in the emerald isle. Whatever the explanation, this group was tickled pink from the experience, and we're glad we were they to capture it all.

County Donegal is not often the first part of Ireland golfers hit on their trips: Tom Doak calls the area a "remote outpost of golf." But those who go off the beaten path and discover the area are rewarded with some of the most spectacular links in the country. The Sandy Hills links were designed by Irish Architect Pat Ruddy in 2003 as a companion to the Old Tom Morris links. Ruddy made use of the large dunes to create a narrow, well-bunkered layout that is one of the sternest tests in Donegal. That didn't deter this group however, who utilized Randy's knowledge and experience to guide them around the course.

From these pictures, it's clear that everyone had an incredibly great time. But of course, golfing in Ireland alongside a PGA Pro, with incredible scenery and some occasional "birdie juice", who wouldn't be smiling?

"The beauty of a golf hole, the way it sits on the land, has a distinct effect on the golfer. It can thrill, it can distract, or it can generate fear of failure." —From the book Rosapenna: Beyond His Lordship's Wildest Dreams by Pat Ruddy (2013)