Some golf trips are special, and then there are those that redefine the meaning of the game itself. The 20th anniversary of the Wedgewood Cup was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ireland’s legendary links courses. This year, we had the privilege of teeing it up at Ballybunion and Tralee, two of the most iconic courses in the world.
Getting to Ireland for the Wedgewood Cup was an adventure in itself. Most of us flew into Shannon or Dublin from the U.S., with direct flights available from major cities like New York, Chicago, and Dallas. After landing, a scenic drive through the lush Irish countryside brought us to the stunning southwest coast, where Ballybunion and Tralee awaited. The journey was smooth, but the real excitement began the moment we stepped onto those legendary links.
Ballybunion: A True Links Masterpiece
Stepping onto Ballybunion’s Old Course feels like stepping into history. The rolling dunes, the unpredictable coastal winds, and the rugged beauty of the Atlantic Ocean create a challenge unlike any other. Each hole demands precision, creativity, and just the right amount of luck. The memories made here—whether sinking a long putt, battling the elements, or simply soaking in the scenery—will last a lifetime.
Upon arrival The Cup had added a new layer and grown to new heights.
Our first round was on the short Cashen course. While it was short it was far from easy with the winds and the giant penalty for leaving the fairway.
A Guinness or two might have been drunk. Both teams tied after the first round of 4-Man Krewe.
On Wednesday we would play 2 rounds, one at the Old Course and again at the Cashen. The winds they be a whipping.
On July 4th we loaded up and make the short trek to Tralee
Tralee: Where Beauty Meets Brutality
Designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, Tralee is a course that both humbles and inspires. The front nine offers a welcoming start, but the back nine is where the course shows its teeth. Towering cliffs, dramatic carries, and breathtaking ocean views make for an unforgettable round. Some of the best shots (and best laughs) of the trip happened here, as we navigated this stunning and sometimes unforgiving course.
For the last and Final Round it was back to the Old Course at Ballybunion.
And there is where Scott Starnes closed out the WWC XX! Congrats Scott!
A quick photo of the champ and Erik Van Rooyen
More Than Golf
Of course, this trip was about more than just birdies and bogeys. It was about camaraderie, tradition, and the shared passion for a game that brings us all together. The evenings were filled with laughter, stories, and a few pints of Guinness as we celebrated two decades of the Wedgewood Cup. Friendships were strengthened, new bonds were formed, and memories were etched into our collective history.
As we packed up our clubs and said our goodbyes, one thing was clear: the 20th anniversary of the Wedgewood Cup was a trip for the ages. And while the scorecards will eventually fade, the memories of Ireland’s fairways, the bonds we strengthened, and the sheer joy of the game will remain with us forever.
Here’s to the next chapter, and many more unforgettable rounds ahead.