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Malone Golf Club
240 Upper Malone Road, Belfast, Antrim, http://www.malonegolfclub.co.uk/About
Malone Golf Club is one of Ireland's best parkland courses and it is virtually unknown. The club was founded in 1895 and has been part of the sporting and social landscape in Belfast since its inception. From its first location at Stranmillis to the current site Ballydrain, the club had welcomed many golfers from all levels including those that simply want to enjoy the surroundings and bar facilities or, as it's called in Ulster, the 'craic'.It's located 5miles south of Belfast, in the lower Lagan valley at Ballydrain, The course gently rolls through 330 acres of immaculately maintained parkland along the River lagan; it was designed by C.K. Cotton and associates.From the moment you drive up the tree lined entrance you know you are in a special place and what lies beyond the gates will definately not dissapoint.The facilities include 27holes, three practice areas, a short game area, putting green, bowling green and fully stocked lake. The main course comprises the Drumbridge and Ballydrain nine - named after the local area. Measuring 6700+ yards, Malone is a solid test of Golf. Accuracy from the tee is demanded due to the many mature trees that await a wayward tee-shot. After finding the fairway, golfers must negotiate the championship greens which, in conjuction with the grounds are maintained to the highest standards. Malone offers a good deal of interest and variety - there are many memorable holes that include changes of elevation, dog legs and water hazards. The signature holes are the demanding Par 4-7th shot and shot Par 3-15th. The 7th measures 497 yards where a difficult drive to a small elevated landing area precedes a difficult approach to a well protected green. The short 15th, measuring a mere 169yards, is sure to get the nerves going with anything short or left of the green comes into play at the 18th, A magnificant finishing hole to a very difficult green overlooked by the fabulous Clubhouse.Malone rightly deserves its place alongside the elite courses in Northern Ireland and any golfing vacation to this area would not be complete without its inclusion.
