On a summers evening in 1960, an historic meeting was held at the Selskar home of Dr. A.T. Ryan. A decision was taken to set about forming a Golf Club in Wexford Town. Present at that momentous meeting with Dr. Ryan were Fr. M. Doyle, Dr. R. Stokes, and Messrs S. Scallan, M. Murphy. T. Keatley, G. Hurley, P. Merlehan, and F.X. Butler.
A 52-acre farm at Mulgannon was for sale, and
following a satisfactory survey by Paddy Merlehan, the District Officer of the
Land Reclamation Scheme, an offer was made and eventually accepted in March
1961.
At this stage Hamilton Stutt of John B. Stutt Ltd.
was called in. This was a firm with wide experience of golf course construction
at such famous places as Carnoustie, Troon, and St. Andrews. They also did some
fine work at Waterford Golf Club. Mr. Stutt was greatly impressed by the
Wexford site, which commands a magnificent view of the town and harbour.
The original 9-hole layout, although altered several
times had a total of 2755 yards with the 1st hole being a massive
par 5 of 510 yards.
In the meantime, golf was introduced to the people of
Wexford through pitch and putt, played to temporary greens. At first there was a
9-hole course, but so enthusiastic was the response, that this was soon
extended to 18.
Then in 1966, having met and exceeded all
requirements, Wexford Golf Club was affiliated to the Golfing Union of Ireland
(G.U.I.). Our first Captain in 1966 was appropriately Dr. A. T. Ryan, and our
President was Rev. M. Doyle. The 1st Lady Captain in 1966 was Mrs.
H. Mathews and our first Lady President was Mrs. M. Mathews in 1986.
From a very humble and basic Club building, Wexford
Golf Club members contemplated the future with confidence. In 1969 the
Clubhouse was extended, with further alterations in 1990.
However, the second most significant happening in the
Club’s history was the opening of the second 9 holes, to make us an 18-hole
course. This took place in P.J. McMahon’s year, and the new course was
inaugurated by none other than Christy O’Connor Jnr. What a day.
We have worked tirelessly to improve and enhance the
original concept, and we invite you to sample the fruits of our endeavors.
You will be enchanted.
Official Opening of 18 Hole
Course 1986
Left to Right: T.A. Ryan (President), P.J. McMahon (Captain), Christie O’Connor Junior, Dr. A.T. Ryan, M. Hennelly (President G.U.I.), Ald. Gus Byrne (Mayor), John McNicholas