Best golf lesson?

Macha

Hi guys,

It's my dad's 60th & I'm getting him a private golf lesson. I've had a look back over this forum and found recommendations for Carton House and the Dave Peltz place in Killeen. Then I found a million more by googling. But would any of you have experienced some of these places? I really want to get him the best lessons.

Also side question: what would be your ideal golfing present? New set of clubs, golfing weekend away, biography of one of the greats, any other extravagant equipment that you wouldn't spend the money on yourself?

thanks in advance

Taco

ShriekingSheet

"The Best" teacher in Ireland is obviously debatable but taking into account quality of players who go to him and technology used along with experience, Brendan McDaid is there or abouts.

That said, it's all the way down in Rathsallagh and 100 quid a pop. Unless your dad is a serious golfer it's prob not worth it.

If you let us know your area or what club your dad plays in it'll be easier to suggest someone nearby. There's good guys all over Dublin for about 60 quid per 30mins.


A slightly alternative idea for the present, as some guys don't really like lessons, would be to organise 9 holes for youor dad with a professional - a playing lesson. Might cost you 100-150 but would likely be more enjoyable for your dad as well as giving him plenty of tips.

Macha

Thanks for the reply ShriekingStreet.

He's living in Wicklow town so could travel to anywhere in the surrounding counties or up the M50 to Meath. Yes, playing the 9 holes of golf is a very good idea as he would probably have to give up one of his usual weekend rounds of golf (he plays Sat & Sun).

He is a pretty serious golfer, with a handicap around 8 if I'm not mistaken..

Edit: Just seen that Rathsallagh is in Wicklah! (ahem, not from Wicklow myself) Great!!

stockdam

Unless he's a top class golfer then a one-off lesson at an expensive teacher will be a waste. I'd rather have two or three lessons at a cheaper rate than one at the most expensive. Video lessons are nice as you can see what you are doing wrong.

Other ideas - ask him what he really needs and then go that little bit extra.

If he needs shoes then go for the dearest Footjoys (Classics - but they are expensive). Balls - Titleist Pro V1.

Gloves - maybe Titleist Players. Or maybe some of the winter mittens if he plays in the winter months.

Socks - a good pair of warm socks sounds boring but he'll appreciate the luxury on a cold day.

Waterproofs - a good Sunderland top and trousers.

Clubs - well he probably would like a new driver. If so then maybe book him into a "fitting" session where the pro can watch his swing and recommend a good driver.

A round at Royal County Down........ok there are lots of good courses that he may not feel are good value but might be nice for a present.

The ultimate - if he plays a lot especially in the winter then buy him a cart (ok so they are really expensive) - that to me is the best present if he is "slowing down".

Macha

Wow..great list stockdam. Thanks for that.

rafared

I'd recommend Bobby Browne in Bettystown.http://www.landb.ie/
I had lessons with him and found him to be excellent. He is old school and can appear a bit grumpy but his knowledge and experience is vast.

fredmie

I just replied to WillyWonka on a separate Tuition question and I told him that I am after buying my father a Gift Voucher for €120 which is Golf, Lunch and an Hours Tuition at Mount Juliet.

Good Value in hard times
https://gifts.skchase.com/mountjuliet/golf/golflunchtuitionspecial.htm

Hope your dad enjoys the 60th.
My fathers is next year.