Historic gathering remembers visionaries connected to local golf club
Pictured at a commemorative gathering to honour 1972 committee members from Athlone Golf Club were Margaret Heavey, Sadie Martin, Aidan O'Carroll, Lilly Hynes (1972 committee members of Athlone Golf Club). Picture: Padraig Devaney
In 1972, Athlone Golf Club proudly unveiled its new clubhouse at the renowned Hodson Bay, commanding breathtaking views over the River Shannon and Lough Ree. The former clubhouse had been located close to the shores of Lough Ree, on land that now forms the 16th tee.
Planning for the new development began in 1966, with construction formally commencing in 1970 when then-captain Dr. Harry Rice turned the first sod. The clubhouse was officially opened on August 28th, 1972, by Mr. W. Montgomery, President of the Golfing Union of Ireland.
The current members of Athlone Golf Club remain deeply indebted to the vision, determination, and foresight of the committee of that era, whose efforts resulted in an enduringly iconic clubhouse set in a truly exceptional location.
To acknowledge their outstanding contribution, a recent commemorative gathering brought together surviving members of the 1972 committee, along with family representatives of those no longer with us, for a photograph at the site of the original clubhouse.
The 1972 men's committee included Aidan O'Carroll, Tom Collins, William Maynard, Egbert Moran, Noel O'Brien, Noel Heavey, Pat Croghan, Harry Rice, Tom McCormack, Michael O'Connor, Ed. O'Flynn (Honorary Secretary), J.D. Martin (Captain), Jack O'Sullivan (President), Christy Fitzgerald, John Brennan.
Marie Lyster, Lilly Hynes, Carmel Fitzgerald, Mary Keogh, Sheila O'Loughlin, M. Ward, Nora Costelloe, Mary Rice, Mary Brosnan (Honorary Secretary), Meryl O'Carroll (Lady Captain), Margaret Heavey, Sadie Martin made up the ladies’ committee in 1972.
It was a tribute to those present and past to see such a turnout to honour and remember those committee members from 1972.
