From Rory’s first swing to visitors’ favorite: Holywood Golf Club Shine – Golf Blog, Golf Articles
From Rory’s first swing to the tourist destination: Holywood Golf Club
Jason Scott Deegan
Hawley Wood, Northern Ireland County – The Hawley Wood Golf Club has disappeared, and Hollywood is all after Rory McIlroy’s unforgettable Grand Slam win.
McIlroy’s family club is in a popular tourist trap outside Belfast, attracting tourists from all over the world. After McIlroy’s historic green jacket in April, demand for photos and souvenirs in professional stores soared.
The club launched “Rory Experience,” which offers the opportunity to enjoy snacks and drinks with member hosts who share the story of McIlroy growing up at the club, followed by the opportunity to pose with the Replica Major Championship trophy from the U.S. Open, PGA Championship and Open. It is best to call the club for availability (phone number: +44 (0) 28 9042 3135).
On a May visit, I witnessed McIlroy’s mania firsthand. As I wandered before a round of the race, a woman came in and asked, “Where is Rory’s room?” She and her husband took a taxi from a cruise ship in Belfast and took pictures around the club. After golf, I met an Australian who was loading the logo for his partner. None of them have time to play. They all just want to see everything about one of the most popular heroes of golf.
“It’s crazy,” said golf professional Ciaran Lavery. “It’s almost like we have two time papers. We have a (T-shirt) schedule that suits the members and guests who are playing, and then we have cruise ships and taxis to pick up, so it’s messy at times. But it’s a really nice busy one.”
If you see a car parked somewhere in the location during your visit, be excited.
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