Sunday 5th July 2026
 
…………I don't wanna talk
About the things we've gone through
Though it's hurting me
Now it's history
I've played all my cards
And that's what you've done too
Nothing more to say
No more ace to play
The winner takes it all
The loser standing small
Beside the victory
That's our destiny…………..


It's Final’s Day here at Castle Golf Club in the All Ireland Father & Son Championship sponsored by Brendan Keary and Kearys Motor Group.
 
First things first, on your behalf we would like to thank all the starters this week and hopefully we have left no-one out – but if we have apologies and thank you.
 
Gerry Dunne
Peter Jordan
Martin Ryan Jnr
Joe Connor
Martin Ryan
David O’Beirne
Greg Magrane
Phil Daly
Denis Hogan
Alan Richardson
Trevor Steedman
Muirgheas Griffin
Alan Howett
Tony Bourke

 
We would also like to thank our scorers and ball spotters and particularly our caddy masters and above all Alex for his trojan work, Colin Clancy and the pro shop, Paul Paterson, Philip, Barbara, Elaine and the office staff, to the bar and catering staff, to the artisans, to Paul Fitzgerald, and the green keeping staff, to all our Juniors who helped out, to the Board including Captains Arthur and Barbara, to the supporters, to you the members for all your forbearance and support and above all to all the Fathers & Sons who have competed this week.
Hope we have left nobody out - but if we did thanks to you too.

Many thanks to the triumvirate – Michael O’Neill, Philip Murphy and Hilary Haydon, who have worked long hours all week to make this competition possible.
 
And finally, and most importantly, many thanks to our sponsor – Brendan Keary – Kearys Motor Group.
Events like this are possible without sponsors – so many thanks.
 
Now - did our four finalists sleep well last night after a week of highs and lows, good golf and some lucky bounces….
Regardless they will now take their well-deserved place in the final of ALL IRELAND FATHER & SON CHAMPIONSHIP, played at Castle Golf Club and sponsored by Kearys
Motor Group.

​The pathways to the final are:
David (Castle 18) & Darragh (Castle 11) Moran
Marc (Castle 5) & James (Palmerstown House 24) Dillon
Sean (Castle 18) & Joseph (Castle 5) Moran
Mark (Grange 1) & Max (Grange 24) Ryan
Niall (Castle 12) & Luke (Castle 20) McNiff
Paul (Skerries 8) & Adam (Deer Park 19) Byrne

Morgan (Castle 11) & Michael (Castle 24) Mullarney
Peter (Castle 18) & David (Castle 4 ) Cosgrove
Michael (Naas 18) & Gavin (Straffan 7) Meagher
James (Castle 16) & Kevin (Castle 5) Moran
Sean (Grange 22) & Ciaran (Grange +3) Murphy
Dylan (Grange +3) & Ian (Straffan 6) Harbourne

Our on-field referee for the final – Captain Arthur McAvoy.
A great privilege and his first time to referee an Ireland Final
 
So – all out on the first tee – stand there please – just one more photo
– ah Lads! – would you leave them alone – sure can’t you see they are all nervous.
The weather has held up well all week and today looks like it will be breezy and sunny, with temperatures high.
but otherwise, buckle your seats - all systems are GO-GO-GO.

On we are off and running
The Mullarneys are in the trees right off the tee but no problems for your Michael as he puts their 2nd to 100 yards from the green.
The Morans hit the fairway with the tee shot and David gets a member’s bounce over the cross bunker – could it be their day?
Darragh M follows this with a low thumped shot, akin to a scalded ca,t as it clears the green into the trees beyond.
Morgan M from the fairway misjudges the swirling wind and comes up sort at the front of the green with the pin back right.
David M tries a little bump into the bank, only for the shot to clear it and run out to the front of the green – Darragh follows up with a good chip to 2 feet.
The Mullarneys take three from the front of the green – hole halved.
 
You might like to know that out of 64 teams making the matchplay, 24 were from Castle and 3 ½ of those made it to the semi-finals – great performance from the home club.
 
Tee shot off the 2nd leave the Morans down the left while Michael Mullarney has hit a great tee shot just off the fairway right.
Darragh M trying to hit a low right to left runner overdoes it and hits trees down the left – leaving David a difficult shot as he comes up just short in three.
Morgan leaves Michael with a short chip which he hits nicely left to right bounce setting up a winning opportunity – the Mullarneys are 1 up.
 
Kissing cousins with the next two tee shots beside each other on the green – 2 putts follow and no change.

The fox re-appears on the 3rd mooching around – perhaps he is looking for payback with Garry Lyons.
 
On the 4th Michael M’s tee shot looks a little right but it’s not - while the Morans are down the middle just right of the fairway bunker.
Darragh, not hanging around, gets on with it and hits a deft shot to 8 feet – back right pin.
Morgan M replies with a good 2nd to 15 feet – Michael comes up 3 feet short – pity as David Moran’s putt just creeps in for birdie – Match all square
 
The 5th sees the Morans well down the right side of the fairway - while the Mullarney’s ball comes to rest behind a tree with an impeded swing – little or no shot - go down the 17th looks like the best option, but they chose to pitch sideways leaving no shot to the green.
The Morans second is pulled left and looks like going into the greenside bunker but decides to kick a little right much to their relief and onto the edge of the green.  
The Morans are left with three putts to win the hole and take 2 before being conceded the last – have 3 take 3 – the Morans are 1up.
 
On the 6th the Morans hit a high tee shot right which lands around the 200-yard marker to the green in the right rough.
The Mullarneys hit the trees right and get the bounce back onto the fairway – Morgan’s recovery shot looks aggressive as he tries to go over the trees left – he gets a little lucky as the ball falls to the ground with a shot to the green.
The Morans hit a marvellous 3 wood up the green finishing on the left edge – The Mullarneys reply through Michael with an equally good shot to the back of the green.
(Remember the Mullarneys are getting a shot here.)
Two treacherous down putts to gimme distance later and the hole is halved.
 
Darragh M hits the green on 7 only to fall into the back bunker
Morgan Mullarney hits a fine shot to the green – advantage Mullarney.
Good bunker shot from David M leaves them 9 feet from the pin.
Michael M teases the hole but the ball will not drop – David Moran has a 9 foot putt for par.
Wow! He holes!
Halved Hole.
 
Good drives down eight leaves the Morans okay but the Mullarney are long right off the tee and a tad blocked out.
A low stinger from Darragh hits the green and rolls into the back bunker – pin is back right.
The Mullarneys have little choice but to chip out sideways – this is followed by an unforced error into the front bunker.
The initiative remains with the Morans as they extend their lead to 2 up.
 
A good drive on 9 from the Morans down the fairway left – while Morgan Mullarney snap hooks his tee shot well left – this time there is a gap for Michael M to hit one well down the fairway – great shot!
 
Its David M turn for an unforced error as he hits one of those “unmentionables” right into the trees – from the mayor’s office to purgatory in one shot!
Both sides are now short of the green in 3 – and are on the green in 4.
Mullarneys have two to win (have a shot here) and duly oblige.
Morans 1 up at the turn.
 
On 10, Michael’s tee shot does not lack commitment – maybe forcing a little as he pulls it left in the near side bunker.
David M take out a driver and pops it on the green – Just like that!
Decent bunker shot from Morgan to 9 feet while Darragh has a tough putt moving a lot from right to left on this back left pin – he rolls it up gently and thankfully (for David) it stays on the same level 6 feet away.
Michael M attacks the hole sensing a possible win here – misses and he is 5 feet past – Darragh misses and it is now down to Morgan to hold the 5-foot putt.
It’s never in question – Hole halved – we move on.
 
Morgan hits a boomer of a drive with a high left to right down 11 – it ends up right of the 12th fairway and is impeded by the trees.
Darragh, in response, hits a low stinger which brushes with the trees left on the left – is it out of bounds – do we need to reload – David is going back!
No Stop, Graham Walsh has found the ball and it’s one foot inside the white line – what an escape – David almost on his knees hits a good chip out just past the bunker.
Michael M, meantime has hit his recovery shot almost back to the 12th fairway.
It seems like an age has passed – both sides here in 2.
Darragh takes out the five wood and plays a high cut, just right of the green pin high to a back left pin.
Morgan responds, needing to also play left to right to avoid a few branches and hits it solid into the back left bunker.
Both sides are on the green in 4 – Darragh shaves the hole with his putt leaving the door open to Morgan M – Morgan drains the putt – the keeper had no chance.
Match all square!
 
Having hit trouble off the tee the Morans play their recovery shot 30 yards from the green – Morgan M lands his second on the dance floor – albeit a long way from the band.
Ouch! Another “unmentionable” we will not say who played it – leave that to your own imagination – nobody likes to see this!
The Morans eventually join the party in 4 – the Mullarneys have a few to win.
Putt – Putt – Putt
The Mullarneys have turned the match and are 1 up.
 
The Mullarneys are on the front foot, and Morgan hits an excellent tee shot to 13, middle of the green with pin red front right.
Darragh comes out of the shot – perhaps a little fuzzled and is well down the hill short of the green – David’s recovery is a tad long leaving a long, long putt – which fails to drop.
Pick it up lads!
Mullarneys are 2 up – what a turn-around!
 
Michael Mullarney – wow what a swing – most of us would die for it – a little high this time but okay down the right.
David Moran is well down the left – good angle!
Morgan ‘s second was another left to right cutter which clips the trees right – he is under a tree with a large twig beside the ball – can he remove the twig – Ref called – Michael O’Neill walks over – takes a look and says “if the ball moves when removing the twig it’s a penalty” – Wise words!
Young Michael from 90 yards decides to punch the ball and ignore the twig – catches it well but at 900 mph- hits the green and races to the back but holds.
3 plays 2 with David now playing a deft chip over the rise and downhill – does well to leave it 10 feet.
Morgan hits a “charge of the light brigade” putt 15 feet past with the return missed.
Back to 1 up Mullarneys
 
The crowd are enjoying every minute and every shot of this great final.
Darragh tee shot on 15 comes up short into the front right bunker while Morgan ball goes long – both playing to a back white pin.
David bunker recovery is solid to 18 feet – Michael looks like he is playing a high flop shot – surely this calls for a low 7 iron runner – his shot comes up short just on the green – as we lie – Morgan putt – goes for it, just misses the pin but rolls 7 feet past – the putt back is missed and the sides are level.
What a match!
 
Two good drives down 16, followed by routine 2nd and 3rd shots with both sides landing on the green in regulation – the Morans have the easier of the options with the Mullarneys lying just off the back on the downside of the bunker – awkward and difficult.
Another putting contest – and 2 good putts from the Morans win the day.
Morans go 1 up.
 
Darragh Moran pulls out a lifetime best drive down 17, cutting left to right and finishing well down and on the short grass.
Morgan – what just happened – he has pulled it left – no even more left – never seen anyone that far left over on the right side of the 5th fairway beside the trees – Michael has an incredibly difficult shot to try and get it down the 4th fairway – hits it well but catches the tree on his left of the 4th green – its above ground – and luckily did not fall into the bunker – Morgan stands tall – seeking to hit a career best – over the huge trees that line the 4th fairway – this is tough! – he commits everything to the shot – it soars through the air – but ouch! Clips the last tree – at least it has come down on the side of the 17th.   
Meanwhile, back on the fairway, David Moran has a 3 wood in hand and although he does not make the perfect connection – he does enough to advance it down the fairway – Darragh plays the next to the green in 3 - the Mullarneys join them on the green in 5.
They think it’s all over?
It is now as David Moran rolls his putt downhill to inches from the hole – Morgan Mullarney does not hesitate in concession – the match is over.
David & Darragh Moran are the Castle All-Ireland 2026 champions.
 
It was wonderful to witness the fantastic swing and golf produced this week by Michael Mullarney – absolutely fabulous! – he is one to watch for the future – keep an eye out for Grange’s young Max Ryan too – also a great young talent.
 
Well – that’s it for 2026
Hopefully, we will see all of you next year when we see how you become the 2027 champions.
 
We will leave you with.
 
……….. Somewhere deep inside
You must know I miss you
But what can I say
Rules must be obeyed
The judges will decide
The likes of me abide
Spectators of the show
Always staying low
The game is on again
A lover or a friend
A big thing or a small
The winner takes it all
I don't wanna talk
If it makes you feel sad
And I understand
You've come to shake my hand
I apologize
If it makes you feel bad
Seeing me so tense
No self-confidence
But you see
The winner takes it all
The winner takes it all..............


 


​Saturday 4th July 2025
 
…………Saturday night and the mistakes are low
Looking out for the place to go
Where they play the right golf, getting in the swing
You come here looking to be king
Anybody could be that guy
Night is young and the music's high
With a bit of rock music, everything is fine
You're in the mood for a dance
And when you get the chance...
You see the treacherous green, trimmed and neat, Not just seventeen
Dancing green, feel the beat from the tambourine
You can golf, you can play, having the time of your life
See that Cup, watch that scene, loving the Castle’s green……….

Semi Finals night here at Castle Golf Club in the All Ireland Father & Son Championship sponsored by Brendan Keary and Kearys Motor Group.
 
Thought we might open this evening with a tribute to Father & Son Chairman Philip Murphy and Michael O’Neill, who have both put in terrific shift this week to make sure that this tournament runs smoothly and without issues for every player – circa 430 in total for the week – “Sure it runs itself…” Eh! It doesn’t!
From all the contestants this week – we thank you.
 
First up - this is the All-Castle match with Morgan & Michael Mullarney setting out to play against Peter & David Cosgrove.
Interesting the two Dads in this match are both previous winners – great achievement.
The Mullarneys are receiving 7 shots.
Great crowd out supporting both pairings.
 
The Mullarneys drew fist blood winning with a par, with the second halved.
Peter Cosgrove holed out for a winning par on the third – all friendly again.
Nice to meet John Cosgrove, who won this great event with Peter a few years ago out walking the fairways in support of Team Cossies.
No room at the inn for John – this year anyway.
 
The 4th was won by the Mullarneys after Morgan holed out from 3 ½ feet – David Cosgrove was unlucky with his putt as it spun around 360 degrees but didn’t drop.
 
Morgan’s tee shot on the 5th went long and down the right and behind the trees.
Is there a gap?
David Cosgrove is also down the right off the tee but in good shape with a clear shot to the green.
Peter C steps up and pulls the trigger, as the ball soars over the front pin and clears the green nestling off the surface – too much spinach for breakfast.
 
There is no gap for Michael M and he chips out sideways – using their shot wisely.
David C plays a delicate chip down the hill coming to rest around 3 ½ right of the hole – good shot. Michael M leaves his putt below the hole.
Peter misses the Cosgrove putt, while Morgan M capitalises to extend their lead – 2 up.
 
The 6th was halved after David C played another great chip to save the day.
On 7, Morgan goes after the back right pin and pulls it left – “am I in the water?” – No as the ball stops rolling just short of the bridge.
David C’s tee shot lands in the back bunker – Peter could not take the pin on with the water looming behind and plays a sensible bunker shot onto the green.
The Mullarney’s take three to make the green leaving the Cosgrove’s with a straightforward two putt to win – back to 1.
 
On 8, Michael Mullarney plays a running shot from just off the green that almost holes out to the back right pin.
The Cosgroves roll their putt up to 18 -22 inches.
Morgan Mullarney holes out leaving the Cosgroves with a tap in for a half.
“You are not going to ask him to putt that for a half?”
Yes – they are and David Cosgrove lines up the putt and agonisingly watches it slip past the hole.
Classic matchplay moment.              Mullarneys – 2 up
 
Morgan M carves his tee shot down 9 into the right-hand trees leaving Michael with a low chip out to avoid the branches – he duly obliges.
David Cosgrove hits a high tee down the left, cutting, cutting and finishing on the edge of the fairway – right. Good drive!
Peter follows this up with an iron that runs long through the green, with the red pin at the front.
Morgan Mullarney from the fairway, hits a high shot left that stays left – lucky to hit the trees to a decent lie. Michael M’s pitch finishes 22 feet from the hole – remember they are getting a shot here.
David C plays another lovely high flop coming to rest 4 feet above the hole.
The Mullarneys miss their putt finishing with a 6 - the Cosgroves have a chance here.
Yet again, the putt slips by and the hole is halved. – 2 up to Mullarneys.
 
No change on 10 as the two drives down 11 are a little right near the trees.
Peter Cosgrove goes first and pulls it left – that is going to end up vey close to the OoB – need to hit a provisional.
Michael Mullarney does not look happy with his shot – not sure Why – as it lands on the green 25 feet from the hole.
The Cosgrove’s ball is in bounds, and David plays a low chip over the bunker and coming to rest on the edge of the green – good shot with the white pin long left.
Two putts from the Mullarneys were enough to extend their lead.
 
Super Shot! As Michael Mullarney launches his drive down 11 – nothing wrong with Peter’s drive either.
David Cosgrove’s iron approach to the back pin, goes long leaving Peter with a tricky return.
Michael M has a 30 foot putt for birdie following his Dad’s approach and pulls it, catching the hill on the left of the green and ending up down the hill – 12 feet from the hole – unforced error.
After Peter leaves his chip well short of the pin – the two sides settle the hole in equal bogeys.
 
On 13 with the wind swirling, Morgan M falls into the left bunker while the Cosgroves are safely aboard.
After Michael M plays a majestic bunker shot and Morgan fails to capitalise the Cosgroves have a great opportunity to pull one back.
OMG – not the right time to have a three putt as David Cosgrove misses a short one.
 
More drama down 14 with Peter Cosgrove playing their 4th shot from the greenside bunker with Michael M alongside him playing their 3rd with a shot on the hole.
Both bunker shots are on the green but not near the hole – it looks like the Mullarneys may have 3 putts to win the hole.
Morgan rolls the putt down the hill – with vigour and pace, finishing 20 feet past while the return putt goes 6 feet past – nervy!
Peter Cosgrove holes for a win! – back to 2.
 
On 15 David C finds the surface with his tee shot 22 feet below the hole while Morgan M takes a more aggressive line and being rewarded as the ball comes to rest 10 feet from the hole.
Peter Cosgrove – feeling good after his winning putt on 14 takes no prisoners as he drains his putt in for birdie.
Still recovering from 14, Michael Misses the opportunity of sharing the honours.
Cosgroves will another one – back to 1 – the comeback is on.
 
Good drives down 16 leaves both sides in good shape as they arrive at the green to around 20 feet to the hole.
David C hits a lovely putt coming up a foot short – agony!
Michael M follows and hits an equally good putt – hole halved – no change.
 
David’ C’s drive 17 gets a member’s bounce back to the fairway from a friendly tree while Morgan M’s tee is boomed down the left.
The Mullarneys are at the back of the green in three while the Cosgroves are in the greenside bunker for the same count with the red pin at the front left – tricky pin.
A putt down the green from the Mullarneys leaves a little tidy up work to be done for par with the ball 7 feet from the pin.
Peter Cosgrove plays a superb bunker shot to gimme distance to the huge applause from the gathered crowd.
The Mullarney’s miss the putt back – we are all square.
Just goes to show how difficult it is to cross the finishing line – onto 18.
 
Mixed fortunes down 18 with Peter Cosgrove not hitting his best into the trees right – there is a gateway to the green with the clubhouse in sight.
The Mullarneys are in the fairway bunker after a great drive from young Michael who was a tad unlucky to find the sand – Morgan hits a big one from the bunker pulled left and over the flower beds beside the 3rd tee box.
David C’s shot leaves Peter 100 yards out from the back pin – just pulls it left of the green close to the flower bed beside the first – tough wind out here.
Michael M to play first and does well, just missing out on holding the green back right – finishing back right – both have played 3 with the Mullarneys wit a shot up their sleeve.
David Cosgrove hits a tidy pitch to 10 feet – while Morgan with putter in hand starts pacing up and down as the tried to compose himself – a tentative prod leaving him 11 feet from the hole – Dead sheep – still ewe!
Young Michael Mullaney rolls the putt in for winning score – the Mullarneys are in the final.  
Great match!
The second semi final features David & Darragh (2r’s) Moran pitting their wits against James & Marc Dillion – James plays out of Palmerstown House and is the only non- Castle contestant still standing. There are no shots in this match.
The Morans win the first with par while the second is halved after Marc Dillon rolls a putt in from 3 feet.
The Dillons go long on the par 3 - 3rd while the Morans are on in regulation.
Jame’s D’s chip comes up short of the hole – David M’s putt is well read – right to left up the hill and stone dead – the Dillons narrowly miss – the Moran’s 2 up.
 
The Dillons are in the trees right of the 4th off the tee and pitch out sideways with the following chip finishing 12 feet from the hole at the right level with the pin back.
The Morans follow up a good drive with an iron that goes long, leaving a difficult chip to the back pin, and downhill after the pin – the attempt slips past.
Two putts later from each side and the hole is halved/
 
On 5 the Dillons tee shot is in the trees left and the recovery shot goes down the 17th ending up on the bank of the bunkers beside the 16th green – Marc Dillon plays a great recovery to the red front pin.
Meanwhile the Morans are stuttering along from the trees on the right leaving the Dillons with a putt to win the hole and they duly oblige – back to 1.
 
On 6 both sides were in the trees right off the tee – the Morans recovery went into the left side of the trees while the Dillons were in good shape on the fairway in two.
Onto the green and it’s a putting contest which the Dillons win to restore equality in the match.
 
The Morans regain their lead on 7 with a winning par.
No drama on the 8th either as both sides halve in pars.
On 9 Marc Dillon hit a monster drive down the left and was lucky that it stayed on the course, leaving a tough chip out sideways.
The Morans were 40 yards from the pin in 2 – all aboard in 3 – down to putting.
The Morans miss – the Dillons miss – Hole halved – Morans are 1 up.
 
James D’s tee shot on 10 loops around the front bunker before spinning out and onto the back right side of the green beside the Morans tee shot.
You need moments like these in matchplay.
Darragh chips up – stone dead – gimme!
Marc chips up to 4 feet – James misses – The Morans go back 2 up.
 
On 11 the Morans win with a par after the Dillons found the trees left of the fairway with their second shot and while Marc played a good recovery to the front of the green, two putts were not enough to get anything from this hole – Morans 3 up
 
On 12, James D pulls his tee shot into the tree in front of the tee and Marc blasted the recovery just 30 yards short of the green.
Darragh Moran’s 2nd shot from the fairway goes long – we were here a few minutes ago and know how tough the chip back is.
James Dillon chips onto the green and Marc rolls the putt up to the hole – in for 5.
David Moran plays a fabulous chip to 10 feet and Darragh holes out for the win – 4 up.
 
David M’s tee shot just lands short off the green to the red front pin while Marc D’s tee shot soars over the pin leaving an 18 foot downhill putt.
David Moran’s chip falls short of the pin while James D’s rolls his putt long – 4 feet.
Darragh M misses – Marc D holes and we are back to 3.
 
Two good drives down 14 resulted with Darragh M pushing his second right of the green while Marc D lands his ball on the green. A tough chip from David M had his ball landing on the green and running down the hill between the bunkers. The nice chip back by Darragh M was not enough to save the hole. Back to 2
Is this happening again?
 
The Dillons find the right-hand bunker on 15 while the Morans find the right hand bunker – decent bunker shots follow and two putts from each side leaves the hole tied – Morans lead 2 up.
The Morans hold their 2-hole cushion on 16 – but lose out on 17 to have the match going don 18 with the Morans 1 up.
Great match – played in a great spirit with good shots being complimented and close putts being given – proper matchplay.
The 18 was halved in Bogeys allowing David & Darragh Moran take their place in tomorrow’s final.
 
And so, we have reached the end of play on Saturday evening.
After a week of matches – highs and lows, agony & ecstasy we have arrived at the final match.
 
The Real and truly FAB FOUR.
The final will see Morgan & Michael Mullarney playing David & Darragh Moran
After much speculation the final will see Castle GC versus Castle GC
It’s here at Castle Golf Club tomorrow teeing off at 2:30 pm
 
……You're a teaser, you turn 'em on
Leave them burning and then you're gone
Looking out for another, anyone will do
You're in the mood for a dance
And when you get the chance...


You see the treacherous green, trimmed and neat, Not just seventeen
Dancing green, feel the beat from the tambourine
You can golf, you can play, having the time of your life
See that Cup, watch that scene, loving the Castle’s green………

Who will win?
Join us tomorrow and enjoy some excellent matchplay golf.
 
 


Friday 3rd July 2026
 
…………. My, my
At Waterloo, Napoleon did surrender
Oh yeah
And I have met my destiny in quite a similar way
The history book on the shelf
Is always repeating itself
Waterloo, I was defeated, you won the war
Waterloo, promise to love you forever more
Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to
Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you
Waterloo, finally facing my Waterloo…………
 
 
Quarter Finals night here at Castle Golf Club in the All Ireland Father & Son Championship sponsored by Brendan Keary and Kearys Motor Group.
 
For those who win through tonight they will enjoy the excitement of a semi final clash on Saturday – for the losers its Waterloo as they join the rest of us “defeated” with no “escape” or redemption until the next opportunity – Next Year!
 
Match 1 tonight had the David & Sam Sheppard (Castle) togging out alongside James & Marc Dillon (Palmerstown House/Castle).
Not much happening over the opening holes as the Dillons are one up after 7 – the Sheppards bounced back to make it all square after 9.
The Dillons won the 10th to restore their edge to one hole and held it through 11 before doubling their lead after 12 holes.
The Sheppard’s never lie down and took one back on 13 with a winning birdie – back to one.
The Dillons used their shot to good advantage to win 14 to keep asking the questions.
Tee Shots on the 15th both hit green – well done
– getting interesting!!!
James Dillon goes first and leaves it close, but the question will be asked?
David Sheppard next and a tentative prod – 3 feet.
Marc Dillon answers the question while Sam’s putt leaves nothing left to discuss.
Hole Halved
Dillons remain 2 up.
Okay tee shots off 16 leaves Marc Dillon playing a low cutting 4 iron from the right rough – class!
Sam Sheppard from the fairway knuckles one down within 100 yards of the green.
James Dillon from 140 yards succumbs to the terrors of 16 in matchplay as he pulls his approach left into the trees.
David S plays next…
Get up! Get up! – the ball lands just beyond pin high – perhaps 9 feet.
Match on!
Marc D clean the grooves and runs the ball from the trees – 15 feet short – James D follows up and leaves a testy 2 ½ foot putt.
The Sheppards look good to bring this down 17 – Sam barely touches the putt and it rolls towards and  hovers near the hole and decides not to fall in – and continues – what is happening ! – then ball forgets to stop and rolls a good 7 feet beyond the hole down the green
– Golf is not fair
– Life is not fair!
Marc rolls in the putt and it’s all over – fractions!
The Dillons dream on while the Sheppards are left to wonder what might have been.
 
It’s Friday night and this tournament just saps all the energy out of you – your mind is willing, but your concentration is challenged and the body is not as strong as you wish it might be – tempo, rhythm - where are you?

Match 2 features Castle’s Celtic Warriors Garry & Jamie Lyons playing Paddy Power’s favourites, Peter & David Cosgrove.
The early exchanges had the Lyons 1 up after 2, with the Cossies taking control after 5 holes to be I up, before extending this lead on the 7th and then winning the 9th to take control of the match – 3 up.
Both parties played a poor 10th – with the Cosgroves scrapping a little better to go 4 up
 Garry & Jamie do not know any negativity and reduced the deficit to 3 after 13 holes.
Garry L played a high – even higher chip from the 18 fairway playing the 14th only to hit the green and run on into the green side bunker – alongside David C’s ball.
Neither pairing played their best bunker shots but at least both had putters in hand.
David C rolls his putt to 4 feet while Garry C goes all out for the win but the speed of green defies him as he finishes 7 feet past.
Who would be a Dad?
Jamie lips out while Pete also misses – super matchplay – hole halved
Cossies still 3 up.
On 15 the Lyons tee shot is short right and their recovery hits that dreaded down slope over the bunker and runs out long.
The Cosgroves tee shot lands in the right hand bunker and the bunker shot scrambles out of the sand to the first cut.     
Garry Lyons roll down his putt – Oh! so close but remains above ground.
Over to Peter Cosgrove and this time Pete the Postman delivers!
Game over!
Waterloo! Waterloo! How we love you!!
 
Match 3 involved Morgan Mullarney (former winner with his late Dad) and his young fellow Michael, both Castle pitching their wits against the Naas pairing of Michael & Gavin Meagher.
The early play in this match showed little between the sides as all square after 7 holes with no change at the turn.
The Mullarney made their first statement on the 10th to go one up and quickly rattled off consecutive wins on 11 and 12 through the loop, to become masters of their destiny.  
They extended this lead on the 14th.
Dormie!
Morgan Mullarney’s tee shot on the par 3 - 15th was short leaving young Michael with a difficult chip over the right hand bunker – while the Meaghers tee shot was on the little island peninsula over the left hand bunker.
Michael Mullarney plays the most majestic chip over the bunker within inches of the hole.
Absolutely crazy – what a shot!
No answer to that   Outrageous!
How good are thes young kids - simply fantastic!
The Meaghers walk over and shake hands – what a great run from them.
The Mullarney’s keept their dream alive.
 
Match 4 was a little starting due to unforeseen circumstances, and one thing was pretty obvious the Morans were going to win as Castle’s Sean & Joseph Moran stood toe to toe with Castle’s David & Darragh (2 r’s) Moran.
The D&D Morans took control of this match from early on being 2 up after 4, and win the 6th to go 3 up.
S & J Moran responded well by winning the 8th and 9th to reduce the match to the minimum.
The loop worked well for D&D Moran allowing them to go 2 up.
 
On 14th David Moran held a sneaky little downhill putt of 5 feet to remain 2 up. He obliges!
Darragh Moran’s tee shot to 15 was seriously impressive landing 9 feet from the pin while Joseph D’s tee shot soared over the pin to the back of the green.
Sean Moran’s putt down the hill slips along the wrong side of the spine and finishes 6 feet away – and the return is missed.
Ouch!
The Morans are 3 up against the Morans.
Dormie to the Morans.
Down 16 and Joseph Moran hits a great stinger second shot – low and accurate down the middle – leaving 120 to the pin.
Daragh Moran plays a cagey second, off a good drive, down the right side of the fairway towards the trees – taking no chances here!
Sean Moran playing their third falls into the Hole 16 Bermuda Triangle as the third shot is pulled left towards the trees
Deja Vu!
– were we not here a few minutes ago!
David Moran looks like he is thinking of playing a putter from 100 yards – eh! No but it is another cagey shot hit just short of the green – no time for heroes.
A Dead Sheep!
Still “ewe”
D&D Moran get to play again and it’s a little heavy handed going long and leaving a nervous putt down the slippery slope.
S & J Moran play a nice chip over the bunker to the back of the green.
Classic Matchplay situation.
 S & J Moran need to hole out but may still win with a two putt given the precarious putt facing D&D Moran – they decide to go for it and just when it looks like nestling up to the hole – Stop! Stop STOP!
-the ball takes off as though it had its own mind to 7 feet beyond the hole.
Have we not seen this before !!
Play back!!
And then miss the return putt - Ouch! Ouch!
D&D Moran decide to have nothing to do with the hole and nudge the ball left up to the edge – rather than go 10 feet past.
The Morans win – well done!
And The Morans lose – hard luck!
 
And so there we are – another night’s golf over.
We are heading to the semi finals.
 
Morgan (Castle 11) & Michael (Castle 24) Mullarney - 7 shots
                                                          v  
Peter (Castle 18) & David (Castle 4 ) Cosgrove 

David (Castle 18) & Darragh (Castle 11) Moran  - Flat Match
                                                           v
Marc (Castle 5) & James (Palmers House 24) Dillon - Flat Match

Two mouth-watering ties – who is going to win
Hope we will see you tomorrow for the big clash semi finals
We never give up the fight – Waterloo!
Good Night!
………….My, my
I tried to hold you back but you were stronger
Oh yeah
And now it seems my only chance is giving up the fight
And how could I ever refuse?
I feel like I win when I lose
Waterloo, I was defeated, you won the war
Waterloo, promise to love you forever more
Waterloo, couldn't escape if I wanted to
Waterloo, knowing my fate is to be with you
Waterloo, finally facing my Waterloo……………….


 

Thursday 3rd July 2025
 
……… Tonight the Super Trouper
Lights are gonna find me
Shining like the sun (Sup-p-per Troup-p-per)
Smiling, having fun (Sup-p-per Troup-p-per)
Feeling like a number one
Tonight the Super Trouper
Beams are gonna blind me
But I won't feel blue (Sup-p-per Troup-p-per)
Like I always do (Sup-p-per Troup-p-per)……..


A feast full of golf tonight in store at Castle Golf Club tonight at the All-Ireland Father & Son Championship, sponsored by Kearys Motor Group.
 
A field full of super troupers tonight - all hoping to make it into the quarter finals.
Many thanks to everyone who made the effort to come up to the club and enjoy some great matchplay golf – where were the rest of you?
 
First out of the blocks had Castle’s true Celtic Warrior Garry Lyons up against the Greystones pairing of Maurice & Harry Phelan – unfortunately the Phelans forgot to put diesel in the engine tonight and try as hard as they could they could not keep up with the supersonic Lyons duo – Garry and Jamie advance to the quarterfinals.
 
The Larkins (Liam – Castle & Peter – Newlands) were 1 up on Castle’s Peter & David Cosgrove after 10 holes – a lead that didn’t last long as it was back all square after 13.
Battle on!
The Larkins went one up on 14 - only for the Cosgroves to bite back straight away with a fine par on 15 after a tidy tee shot from David to 25 feet – Back A/S.
Ding! Dong!
Up 16 and two decent drives by both sides – backed up with solid second shots.
No drama here!
Liam Larkin steps up for his 3rd shot from 160 yards to a back right (ish) pin – sounds good, but with the adrenaline rush bounces long – not great use of the shot being received.
Peter (or should I say Pete!) Cosgrove’s turn from 120 yards and he boxes clever – not risking that pin and is satisfied to be at the front of the green.
Ouch! The Larkin’s chip falls short – now left with a treacherous downhill chip – not bad – finishes 6-7 feet – but played 5.
David Cosgrove rolls the ball up the green leaving his Dad with a sneaky little putt to win the hole and he duly obliges – the Cosgroves go 1 up.
Routine fairway finders off the 17th tee with the Cosgroves looking like they are in the mayor’s office – only for “Pete” Cosgrove to shove the second into the trees right of the fairway.
Shane Larkin hits their second just 20 yards short of the green – and followed up with a neat chip to 20 feet.
David Cosgrove plays a low runner from the trees right onto the green and rolls over the back – not bad! – Peter up next and leaves the ball a tad short and a tough downhill putt which David plays well but with no parachute rolls 3 ½ feet past the hole.
The Larkins have a putt to win and lip out on the hole – over to the Cosgroves.
A long look at this putt – maybe too long and Peter misses….Ouch!
All square again! – Down 18 – Great match
Liam Larkin – stands tall – Fore Right – we hear.
Peter Cosgrove wrestles with his tree wood and hits a divine shot down beside the fairway bunker.
The Larkin recovery shot from the trees off 14 is hit well and finishes on the left edge of the fairway 90 yards from the pin.
David Cosgrove goes next from 190 yards out - slightly left – Go! Go! Go!
The ball comes to rest just short of the green on the front left.
Ouch! comes next for the Larkins - after which they arrive on the green in four, with a shot.
The Cosgroves have done the maths and nudge their ball up to 8 feet in 3.
“We are as lie Net!”
The Larkins have a 12 foot downhill putt – never easy and while it rolls close - it slips 3 feet past – Oops!
David Cosgrove has a putt to win and he misses. Are we going 19?
Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!
A horrible end to this match as the Larkins miss the putt back – not a great end to a great match.
But – that’s Golf!
We will see the Cosgroves in the quarter finals tomorrow and look forward to seeing the Larkins next year.
Congrats to the Cosgroves on the recent arrival of Baby Sophie.
 
Darragh & Shane Maxwell (Castle) stole an early march on Michael & Gavin Meagher (Naas/Straffan) after being 1 up after 2 – but that did not last long as the Meaghers went 3 up after 10 and extended this to five after 12 holes – after Gavin Meagher drove the par 4 - 12th.
Time to wake up and the Maxwells responded well winning the 13th and 15th to reduce the deficit to three shots.
This revival was brought to halt on the 16th green with the Meaghers winning 3/2.
 
A gritty match followed with Grange v Castle setting the backdrop as Mark and Max Ryan took on the local pairing of David & Darragh Moran.
Classic nip and tuck matchplay as the Morans took the initiative at the turn – 1 up.
The Morans increased their lead to 2 up after 12 holes and held this lead through 14 holes.
Mark Ryan hit a perfect tee shot on 15 to around 12 feet while the Morans were a little unlucky to hit the back of the front bunker and run through the green – a good chip followed to set up a par.
Max Ryan had a putt for a win and while it went close – no joy – Morans still 2 up.
No change after 16 holes.
Down 17 - the Morans follow up their drive and second with a routine third shot to the green - 20 feet from the hole.
Mark Ryan has his third shot from the left-hand trees – and hits a runner which after hitting the green runs a good 25 yards through it – really tough return chip to a raised green which runs downhill after landing on it – Too much spinach this morning – Mark!
 
Undaunted, Max Ryan steps up to the ball and hits the most delightful chip that hits the upslope of the green- killing it and allowing the ball to roll gently down the green.
Wow!
Magic Max!
This 12-year young man is going to be some golfer – watch this space!
 
Mark Ryan lips out, missing par.
The Morans hit a gentle putt down the hill – not taking too many chances - so close that the Ryans graciously conceded.
Match over – Cruel game! That’s Golf!
We look forward to seeing the Morans tomorrow.
 
Castle’s Sean & Joseph Moran played Grange’s Conall & Kevin Cleere and the Castle men earned the early bragging rights being 2 up after 3.
The Cleeres reduced this lead to one hole after 9 holes.
A good loop for the Morans had them 3 up after 13.
Kevin Cleere found a “clear” pathway to the par 3 – 15th green to set up a winning par.
The Morans showed no mercy on 16 closing out the match for a 3/2 win.
 
Another all-Castle affair involved Philip & Colm Fitzpatrick lining out against David & Sam Sheppard.
Early blood for the Fitzpatricks as they won the first and turned 3 up.
The Sheppards reduced this deficit to 1 through the loop.
A winning putt on the 14 green restored parity in this match – A/S
Sam Sheppard struck a beautiful tee shot on 15 to 15 feet while the Fitzpatricks were a little unlucky to hit the downside of the front bunker and run through the green – second time tonight!
The chip back from the Fitzpatricks was a tad long leaving an awkward putt back which they missed – two putts and the Sheppards go 1 up.
Great comeback!
The Sheppards with their nose in front closed all windows and doors and finished out the match on the 17th green winning 2/1.
 
The Mullarneys (Morgan and Michael) were matched up with Jim & Kevin Moran in yet another Castle last 16 match.
The Mullarneys took an early lead being 2 up after 3, increasing it to a 3 hole lead by 9 and holding this through 12.
The Morans staged a brief comeback after Kevin Moran holed out for a winning par on 15 and continued with a winning par on the 17th green – match going down 18.
Young Michael Mullarney hit a cracking tee shot down the last setting up his Dad for a shot at the green in two.
The Morans tee shot was a “Fore” down the 14th fairway leaving a difficult recovery shot.
The Mullarneys simply shut up shop – no room at the inn for the Morans and thank you very much – roll on Friday for the Mullarneys.
 
The last match out on the night featured Andrew & Ryan Baird up against former winners Marc and James Dillon.
Another Ding Dong match ensued.
The Dillons were 2 up after 3 and were reduced to 1 up after 9.
The Bairds do not lie down and turned the match going 1 up after 13 – holding this to 15 and extending the gap to 2 holes after 16 – looking good.
Dormie 2 up.
The Dillons know how to win this competition and were not going to give up with screaming and shouting.
On 17, Marc Dillon found himself playing his 3rd shot from way out on the 4th fairway – no problem as he lands the ball 20 feet from the hole.
The Bairds found the front of the green in 3 – Andrew Baird hits a good putt which rolls past the hole leaving a sneaky 3 ½ putt back.
James Dillon plays their 4th shot and another near miss – pick up your ball!
Ryan Baird has a putt for a half and to his horror fails to find the bottom of the hole.
The lead is reduced to one hole going down the last in favour of the Bairds.
 
Marc Dillon finds himself long through the back of the 18th green and hits a delightful chip to 6 feet.
Ryan Baird is in the bunker right and matches Marc with a great play leaving the ball 7 feet from the hole
Andrew Baird steps up and holds his nerve and the putt – in for 5.
Next up James Dillon from 6 feet – nerves jangling – and he holes for 5 too - with a shot.  
We are going down 19 – first time tonight.
 
A drive that you would dream of followed by Marc Dillon as the ball soared past the fairway bunker leaving his Dad just 200 yards from the green.
Ryan Baird was a little unlucky to catch the trees right leaving his Dad with a chip sideways back into play – which he duly obliges.
Another dream shot follows from James Dillon as he hits the ball 20 yards short of the green.
Ryan Baird follows from 170 yards and pushes it a little right of the green - pin high in 3.  
Marc is a little heavy handed with the pitch ending up 25 feet past the pin.
Andrew Baird plays an excellent chip hitting the downhill and ending up 8 feet from the hole – are we going down 20.
Marc and James hover over the ball as they eye up the putt – James stands up and rolls the ball so gently – it looks like it will never get to the hole and yet keeps rolling…..rolling..
It couldn’t? Could it?
Yes, it could! the ball rolls gently down and into the hole for a BIRDIE.
An amazing win for the Dillons – after being 2 down with 2 to play.
Hard luck the Bairds – this was a proper game of golf!
 
And so play comes to an end for Thursday – plenty of drama – Highs and Lows.
 
 
 
The quarter final matches will start from the first tee at 16:00 pm.
With visiting captains from the local clubs playing as guests of Castle Captains Archie and Barbara will add to the overall sense of occasion.
  
Tonight we say goodbye to 8 more Super Trouper pairings, while the winning 8 Super Trouper will be shining and having fun – well for tonight anyway!
 
………..I know it's gonna mean so much tonight
Tonight the Super Trouper
Lights are gonna find me
Shining like the sun (Sup-p-per Troup-p-per)
Smiling, having fun (Sup-p-per Troup-p-per)
Feeling like a number one…..


Many thanks to everyone who visited Castle today to support the players – greatly appreciated.
We look forward to seeing you tomorrow – first tee 16:00 pm.


Wednesday 1st July 2026
 
…….. Knowing me, knowing you, uh-huh
There is nothing we can do
Knowing me, knowing you, uh-huh
We just have to face it, this time we're through 
This time we're through, this time we're really through, this time we're through
We're really through
Breaking up is never easy, I know
But I have to golf…
I have to golf, this time I have to golf, this time I know
Knowing me, knowing you
It's the best I can do…………
Wednesday evening at Castle Golf Club in the All-Ireland Father & Son, sponsored by Kearys Motor Group and it’s the first day of July.
This event would not be possible without the sponsorship provided by Brendan Keary and the Kearys Motor Group and so on your behalf, we say a HUGE THANK YOU.
We are now moving into the business end of this scintillating championship.
From here on in there are no breaks – no days off and the matches just keep coming. Stamina, Fitness, Energy Levels, Hydration, Focus, Concentration, Rhythm, Good Swing, Good Swing Thoughts, Positivity, Trust are all essential ingredients as the week progresses – It’s a cauldron – Its intense!
Breaking up is never easy and so we want each pairing – each Father & Son to stay together for as long as possible in the competition– you gain so much strength from playing side by side, Father & Son – it’s so special – no words are required to explain that special bond – the matches drain you and yet the emotion and adrenaline keep you focussed as you sway from shot to shot during each round.

This evening was warm and windy and presented a challenging night ahead for the players.
First match out had an all-Grange combination with Conall & Kevin Cleere getting the better of David & Eoghan O’Riordan.
Next match across the finishing line had James & Marc Dillon (Palmerstown House/Castle - former winners – watch them – course and distance winners) beating Brendan & Ben Clarke (Grange) – 4/3.
Stephen & Cian McCormack (Ashbourne/The Island) now know what it feels like to be back row forward as they ran into Ryan Baird and his Dad, Andrew tonight with the Baird’s emerging victorious 5/4.
 
Castle’s David & Sam Sheppard had a great match with Robert & Stephen Carroll (Blessington Lakes/Grange) leading 1 up at the turn. The Sheppard’s extended their lead to 2 holes after 16 holes. The Carroll’s holed a great putt on 17 from 35 feet to look like bringing the match down the last only for David Sheppard to drain a putt from 25 feet for a win. Magic moments!
 
The Mullarney’s (Morgan & Michael) did not leave too many doors or windows for Grange’s Sean & Ciaran Murphy in a tightly contested match.
The Mullarney’s were one up after 9 and eventually extended their lead to 2 holes after 16 and held that lead when winning on 17.
 
Tough day in the office for Castle’s Niall & Ben McDonnell when losing out in their match against Maurice & Harry Phelan 4/3 – perhaps Niall should have forgotten his shoes again.
Apparently, our fox made a guest appearance but failed to have an impact on this match.
 
Another all-Castle affair involved Garry & Jamie Lyons crossing swords with Vice-Captain David Harte and his son Thomas (a stalwart of many Castle teams over recent years).
The Lyons’ were a/s square after 9 and then went 3 up, only for the Harte’s to win 3 on the spin to go all square in a great fight back – and then the Lyons’ had to break the Vice Captain’s “Heart” when winning on the 16th green.
There is no truth in the rumour that after the match, Garry was handed a membership application form for a nearby club.
 
Shane & Cillian Daly (Castle) were 1 up after 9 holes playing against Grange’s Mark Ryan (have I told you he won the West of Ireland in 2003) & his son Max and maintained that slender lead through 16 holes.
Cillian Daly had a difficult tangle with the gorse, chipping well out, after a tricky shot from his father was pulled left on 16 – but it was not enough to save the hole as Mark Ryan played a majestic bunker shot to inches – all square.
Young Max Ryan played a super second shot into the green bunker on the par 5 17th while the Daly’s were on the green in four – Mark got lucky out of the bunker hitting the lip but staying on the green to allow Max to roll up beside the hole for a winning par.
A super drive down the middle on 18 left Mark Ryan just beyond the bunker right while the Daly’s were impeded by the trees having landed close to the 14th fairway – the Daly’s played a good recovery shot, followed by a 60-yard chip from Cian Daly to around 15 feet.
Mark Ryan failed to commit to his second shot, leaving Max with a difficult chip of 30 yards over the edge of the greenside bunker.
By Golly – was Max up to the next shot? – he hit the most sublime chip stone dead inches from the hole, leaving the Shane and Cian Daly speechless while magnanimous in defeat.
 
Another epic match this evening had the Island’s Quinn's (Jack & Joe) taking on Castle’s Sean & Joe Moran.
All square after 5 – the Moran’s went 1 up after 6 and maintained this lead through 17 holes.
On the final hole, after a decent drive, the Moran’s pushed their second well right into the trees right of the greenside bunker leaving a difficult shot, which was pitched out to the fairway, short of the green.
The Quinn's played a terrific second shot from the trees nearby the 14th fairway to almost pin high left of the green.
This looks like it might go up 19.
Joseph Moran plays a delicate chip to 3 ½ feet – over to the Quinns.
Ouch!
Their chip drops shot the surface of the green – needed to be close to the hole – not fair!
Jack Quinn goes close with his pitch, but alas no cigar and the Moran’s will tee it up on Thursday
 
The all-Castle match had the Niall & Luke McNiff up against David & Darragh Moran. The Moran’s were 3 up after the turn and maintained this advantage through 12 – at which point the McNiff’s started a spirited comeback to be one down after 15.
The Moran’s were through the green on 17 while Niall McNiff had an excellent shot on the green to bring the match down the last.
Any match that finishes on the 18th is a great match and well done to both sides – the Moran’s prevailed on this occasion and go into the next round.
 
And so! after a night of trials and tribulations – do we really know each other and sadly some of pairings are breaking up… for this year anyway.
 
We look forward to seeing you all on Thursday evening at Castle Golf Club as we get down to the more serious end of business with eight matches – first off is 16:00 – so don’t leave it too late to join us.
Cracking matches in Store – two all-Castle crusades featuring The Mullarney’s against The Moran’s and the Fitzpatrick’s stepping out against The Sheppard’s
Funny enough there are three Castle Moran’s still standing, and none are related.
 
Memories 
Good days 
Bad days 
They'll be with me always 
In these old familiar courses
Golfers would play
Now there's only emptiness
Nothing to say
You might also like
 
Knowing me, knowing you, uh-huh
There is nothing we can do
Knowing me, knowing you, uh-huh
We just have to face it, this time we're through 
This time we're through, this time we're really through, this time we're through)
We're really through 
Breaking up is never easy, I know
But I have to go 
I have to go, this time I have to go, this time I know)
Knowing me, knowing you
It's the best I can do
See You Tomorrow – Don’t be late!!
​​
Tuesday 30th June 2026
……….I work all night, I work all day to pay the bills I have to pay
Ain't it sad?
And still there never seems to be a single penny left for me
That's too bad
In my dreams I have a plan
If I got me a wealthy man
I wouldn't have to work at all, I'd play golf and have a ball
Money, money, money
Must be funny
In the rich man's world………….


Tuesday 30th June and guess what we are halfway through the year!
Welcome to the Castle Golf Club Daily Blog and to the 2026 Keary’s Motor Group sponsored All Ireland Father & Son Championship.
 
Tonight is the last of the round of 32 matches with 16 ties left in the first round as we watch Father & Son step out against father & Son – no doubt about it – it is a rich man’s world……
You know what!
Golf is a great game…
And foursomes golf is great fun.
And playing with your son and or your father is not only great fun but an opportunity to create special and unique memories that will live with both of you from now to eternity.
A great mixture of matches tonight with some resulting in an early bath for a few pairings. While no one likes to see big margins in matches - it happens – getting through to the match play is a great achievement.

Match of the night saw the battle of Celtic Warriors in all Castle outing with Garry & Jamie Lyons taking on Hilary & Arthur Haydon.
This match lived up to its billing with some terrific golf. The Haydon’s took an early lead with a bridie on the 3rd after the first two holes were halved in pars.
The Lyons etched ahead to lead 3 up at the turn - only for the Haydon’s to win 10 and 11.
An excellent approach shot from Jamie Lyons on the 12th restored a 2-hole lead – this was increased to a 3-hole lead after 14.
Yet again another superb tee shot from Jamie Lyons to 8 feet on the par three 3 15th allowed Garry to roll down the putt beside the hole for a winning par and advance to the next round with bragging rights intact.
All round - a great match played in a great spirit with golf and of course the Lyons's being the winners.
Interestingly, our fox from last night re-appeared on the 5th and grabbed Garry Lyons' ball from the green – and Garry chased him – and not only recovered his own ball but also Paul Lysaght’s ProV from last night – would you believe it!!!
 
An interesting start developed to the match between Castle’s Niall & Ben McDonnell with Foxrock’s Peter & Graham O’Connor as Niall started the match without his golf shoes – Poor old Philip Murphy had to go out in the buggy to rescue the situation.
Shoes or no shoes the McDonnells put in a great shift when taking care of the O’Connor’s – who are quality players with a great tradition of supporting this event and have advanced to the later stages on many occasions. We look forward to welcoming them back next year.
Hopefully Niall will remember his shoes tomorrow night or perhaps Cinderella might not make the ball.
 
Jack McDonnell and his Dad, Michael (Royal Dublin/Black Bush) had a good win over Patrick & Harry Bradshaw (Donabate/Portmarnock) winning on the 17th green – Jack runs the Storyteller Pub in town – but can he tell better stories than you get from the F&S Blog every night!!!
 
Leading qualifiers , Castle’s Darragh & Shane Maxwell stepped up against Gareth & Keane Cooke (The Island) and continued where they left off after the stroke play qualifier – never giving their opposition a chance to get into the match – albeit they nearly blew it on 16 when after young Shanes 300 yard drive – Darragh knocked his 7 iron out of bounds – unbelievable!! They scrambled a winning half from the second ball.
 
The All-Grange match tonight featured Sean & Ciaran Murphy taking on Ken & Elliott Doyle – Ciaran is off plus 3 and did he produce it tonight – an impressive 5 birdies left the poor Doyle's wondering what went wrong – when they surrendered on the 14th green.
     
Ireland’s rugby star Ryan Baird alongside Andrew (His Dad!) were brought to the 18th green in a match full of quality golf against Owen & Eamonn O’Flynn (Stackstown) – Ryan getting a correct drop from a sprinkler on the side of the green which allowed the Baird’s to secure the win and take their place in the next round.
 
Brendan & Jay Walsh (Castle) followed up their solid performance in the stroke play with an impressive win against Michael & Jack McDonnell (Black Bush/Royal Dublin)
Brian & Brian Jnr Fehily (Newlands/Skibbereen) also advance to the next round after defeating Seamus & Ross McCormack (Naas/Palmerstown House)
The Morans (Jim & Kevin) were successful against Denis & George Hogan in an all-Castle affair – winning on the 17th green.
 
Grange pairing of Conall & Kevin Cleere did well to win their match against John & Hugh Mulcahy (Castle/Tara Glen) winning on the final green having been 3 down.
 
The last match of the night involved Iain & Michael Collins (Bray) playing the Island’s Jack & Joe Quinn in a flat match – Nip & Tuck all the way with the Quinn’s 1 up after 9 – extending this to 2 up after 13 – only to be pinned back to all square after 18 holes – here we go again – up the 19th – tied down 20  - now down 21
– Genie Mackers, it looks like this match wants to stay out all night.
Now going down 22nd and the Quinn’s are down the middle with the Collins gone right – the Quinn’s make the front edge of the green in two while the Collins have work to do having hit their third onto the green to 15 feet.
Daddy Quinn steps up to the putt having taken relief from casual water (some late showers this evening) and Joe reminds him that its uphill and slow – Putt hit.
Great putt to 6 inches – well done.
The Collins have a putt for a half and Wow – it shaves the hole but alas not good enough – the Quinn’s march on.    
 
Wednesday evening will see more match play golf full of great golf and excitement with a range of matches set up to test the Father & Son pairings and entertain all who ramble down to watch – why not join us!!
 
There are a couple of cracking all Castle matches which could have the nerve ends dangling by the end of the night including Garry & Jamie Lyons taking on Vice-Captain David Harte with Thomas, with Niall & Luke McNiff challenging David & Darragh Moran.
Wow – you got to get yourselves down to Castle Golf Club to see this with your eyes.
 
No doubt but tomorrow will bring great fortune to some pairings.
Money, money, money may not bring a good night’s sleep to all our pairings – so let’s hope that it will be sunny, sunny, sunny tomorrow
 
Night! Night!
 
……………So I must leave, I'll have to go
To Las Vegas or Monaco
And win a fortune in a game of golf  my life will never be the same
Money, money, money
Must be funny
In the rich man's world
Money, money, money
Always sunny
In the rich man's world………………..




Monday 29th June 2026
 
………I have a dream, a song to sing, to help me cope with anything
If you see the wonder of the fairy tale
You can take the future even if you fail
I believe in angels, something good in everything I see
I believe in angels, when I know the time is right for me
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream……..
 
Welcome to the Castle Golf Club Daily Blog and to the first round of matchplay golf at the 2026 All Ireland Father & Son Championship sponsored by Keary Motors Limited.
 
Tonight, all our pairings have a dream and hope that the angels will turn their week into a true fairy story as they embark on round one of the 32 matches being played.
 
Over 200 pairings (430 players) teed it up in the stroke play qualifying, and we are now down to 64 pairings, with each Father & Son juggling their expectations with jangling nerves as they set out on the road to the final on Sunday, in their quest to land the coveted trophy and All Ireland title. Good luck to all.
 
First out tonight was almost an all-Castle match with Michael & Ben Murray pitting their wits against Liam & Peter Larkin (Lisheen Springs) – The Larkins wedged a foot down early in this match and never gave the Murrays a look in, closing the deal on the 14th, leaving poor Michael speechless.
 
Castle’s Cosgroves stepped up to take on ex League of Ireland starlet Liam Buckley (Lisheen Springs) and his son Alex (Rathfarnham). Peter brought his son David into the team after he had masterminded the victory for Peter & John Cosgrove in 2023. The Cosgroves took an early lead being 2 up after 8 and advanced their cause being 3 up after 13 and simply would not surrender as the Buckley’s fought hard to pull them back – before finally willing on the 14th green.
 
Vice-Captain David Harte and Thomas Harte took on the mighty pairing of Robert & Andrew Kennedy from the Island who were supported by their excellent caddy Fionn Kennedy.
The Kennedy’s took the lead and were 2 up after 8 – the Harte’s played a solid loop to bring the match back all square after 13 holes.
The Kennedys took the initiative on 17 for a slender lead going down the last – a good match.
The Hartes struck back on 18 to bring sudden death into play – The Hartes were in the trees right off the 1st and their recovery landed them in the cross bunker – The Kennedys hit the fairway with their drive and their second sailed over the bunker into the trees on the right – David Harte stood tall in the cross bunker and played  a most majestic  shot over 100 yards and landing 30 feet from the pin – WHAT a SHOT ! - the Kennedys had to scramble out from the trees and young Andrew Kennedy played a lovely pitch to circa 30 feet – the Kennedy putt went close and with two putts for the win the Hartes did not disappoint.
Great match – sadly we lose one of these pairings tonight.
 
Michael & Gavin Meagher had too much petrol in the tank tonight for our former F&S Chair Michael O’Neill and his son John – The match ended on the 17th green, which is always the sign of a decent contest.
 
Spare a thought for Grange’s Dylon Harbourne playing alongside his Dad (Ian) as he scored an ace on the 3rd as his tee shot holed out – alas not quite good enough to overcome the formidable pairing of Castle’s Morgan & Michael Mullarney who won 3 and 2 – Morgan is also a former winner, winning with his Dad.
 
And just when you thought no bus would come along - two of them arrive in quick succession – David & Noel Joyce (Powerscourt/Royal Curragh) were rejoicing as David’s 6 iron holed out for a hole in one on the 15th – would you believe it – proving to be a winning blow as they overcame Grange’s David & Patrick Carroll – 3 and 2.
Another bottle of wine blows the budget!!
 
Pearse & Myles O’Sullivan (Edmondstown) were victorious over Castle’s Martin & Hugo Ryan winning 2 and 1.
Grange’s Mark Ryan (former West of Ireland Champion) and his Max had a strong win over Castle’s Austin & Austin Jnr Duke.
Niall & Luke McNiff (Castle) slipped quietly into the second round with a solid performance against Grange’s Evan & Michael Kennedy winning 3 and 2.
 
The final all Castle match featured the Fitzpatricks (Philip & Colm) battling with the Lysaght’s (Paul & Adam) – a close match all night with the Fitzpatrick’s edging in front on 16th and advancing to the next round winning on the 17th green.
The Lysaght’s were “outfoxed” on the 12th fairway – as their ball was snatched away by an enthusiastic fox – so unfortunately for Paul - not only did he lose the match but a brand new ProV as well!!
You could not make it up.
 
Late in the evening and the last match out has Castle’s past Captain Brendan Meaney and his Jimmy playing Grange’s David & Eoghan O’Riordan. The O’Riordans have had their noses in front from an early stage with a solid golf performance – going 2 up after 15 holes and closing out for victory on the 16th green.
   
As Monday draws to a close, 16 of the pairings are through to the second round on Wednesday and their dream – the fantasy of lifting the trophy on Sunday lives on – there will be a little more darkness and a few more miles - and I dare to dream – I have a dream.
 
Results and Draw are in the Draw & Results Section.
 
…………I have a dream, a fantasy, to help me through reality
And my destination makes it worth the while
Pushing through the darkness still another mile
I believe in angels, something good in everything I see
I believe in angels, when I know the time is right for me
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream
I'll cross the stream, I have a dream…………
   

​Sunday 28th June 2026
 
…… Gonna do my very best and it ain't no lie
If you put me to the test, if you let me try
Take a chance on me
(That's all I ask of you, Dad)
Take a chance on me……


Sunday 28th June 2026 and a glorious but somewhat blustery day at Castle Golf Club for Day 2 of stroke play qualifying in Keary Motors sponsored All Ireland Father & Son Championship.
 
Tricky greens with some savage pin placements have put both Father & Son to the sword today, in their quest to reach the qualifying matchplay stages.
Downhill – please Stop! Stop!  STOP!!!
Phew – now back uphill please Stop!! STOP!!!
 
Commiserations to those who failed to cross that magic line - it’s never easy.
Congratulations to those who have made into the matchplay stages – we look forward to seeing you on Monday or Tuesday for your next big match.
 
If you are not available to play for the coming week, please let us know and do not line up for the matchplay stages – it’s only fair to everyone who has tried to qualify, that pairings that are available for the week take their rightful place on the first tee.
 
The early birds this morning were the Grange pairing of Mark Ryan and his son Max playing opposite Ronan Brady and his son Ciaran, shooting a tidy 1 under par (69) to take the early lead in the clubhouse.
 
Castle stalwarts Shane Daly and his son Cillian, playing alongside Robert & Jonathan Ruttledge, matched this 1 under par score with a fine 69 to be joint leaders in the clubhouse.
 
Andrew Baird and his son Ryan Baird (Ireland International and Leinster Blue) who played with Eddie & Edward O’Malley coped admirably in the windy conditions to bring home a 73 and comfortably breeze into the matchplay draw.
   
Great to see so many regular Dads and their sons playing today - not forgetting some older lemons returning after a brief absence – all are most welcome – including Blainroe’s Ray Kilty and his son Ian (Castle Pavilion Member), Castle’s Maurice Redmond and his son Mark (Wicklow), Portmarnock’s Niall and Derry O’Connor to mention but a few.
 
As the day draws closer to a conclusion, Castle’s Jim and James Quinn have tipped the scales with a marvellous score 66 - 4 over gross to snatch the clubhouse lead.
Serious good golf!
Well Played!
 
Also late in the day, Castle’s Harry Gleeson and his son Harry Jnr brought in a nett 1 under 69 to join the pairings in the runner up position for the day.
 
And when you just think it’s all over….
It’s not!
Castle Daragh Maxwell & his son Shane, playing alongside Mark & Gavin O’Riordan, shoot the lights out with a nett 63 to blow the field away.
What a score!!
 
All scores to 6 over par qualified today plus a couple on 7 over par.
The draw is now published under the draw section on the Website.
Good luck to all of you and well done on making it through the gruelling test of stroke play golf.
To those of you who failed to make the grade this time- we hope to see you next year.
The reserve list for Monday and or Tuesday is set out below as well - in case any who have qualified are unable to play.
We look forward to seeing you all at Castle over the next two days when the real fun begins!
 
……If you change your mind, I'm the first in line
Son, I'm still free
Take a chance on me
If you need me, let me know, gonna be around
If you've got no place to go, if you're feeling down
If you're all alone when the putts don’t go down
Son, I'm still free
Take a chance on me…………

​Reserves
Seamus & Sean McGrath
Gareth & Keane Cooke
Owen & Eamonn O'Flynn
Mark & Gavin O'Riordan
Jim & Andrew Barry
Cormac & Martin Cassidy
Ronan & Ciaran Brady
Mark & Daniel Keating
Hugh & Luke Bagnall
David & Cillian Simpson

Saturday 27th June 2025
 
 Yes, I've been broken hearted
Golf, since the day we started
Why, why did I ever let you go?
Mamma mia, it's a game we play
Mamma mia, here I go again……..
My my, how can I resist you?
Mamma mia, does it show again?
                                                                 
Can you believe it – The 2026 All Ireland Father & Son, sponsored by Keary Motors at Castle Golf Club, is underway. Many thanks to Brendan Keary and his team.
 
The Castle volunteers and course staff were up at the crack of dawn, arriving at 6:00 am to get the course and competition ready for the Father & Son combinations playing today.
 
The F&S Chair Philip Murphy, Michael O’Neill, Peter Jordan and David O’Beirne who along with Castle staff members Philip Hollowed and Alex Donaldson, were among the early morning volunteers, working well to ensure that everything was perfectly set up for today’s competitors.
 
A glorious morning at Castle Golf Club welcomed each father and son as they arrived full of youthful enthusiasm blended with a little grey haired (sometimes bald) experience.
 
Among the early starters Grange’s David Carroll alongside his son Patrick stole a march on their playing partners Castle’s Declan & Senan McNiff when coming home with a 3 over par 73.
 
Longtime friends Garry Lyons and Niall O’Brien played together with sons Jamie and Joseph. Garry did not fluff his “lyons” and qualified with ease, with a fine score of 72 – 2 over par.
 
Castle’s Vice-Captain David Harte teed it up with his son Thomas producing a solid start with a fine level par 70, while their players partners Brian and Brian Jnr Nevin also made the cut with 5 over - 75.
 
Dark horse, Brendan Walsh and his son Jay had no problems overcoming the strong breeze, that developed over the morning, when shooting a fantastic 67 – 3 under par to be the leading Day 1 qualifiers – Absolutely Fabulous!
 
The Father & Son Supremo’s – the Finlans were back again teeing it up again for another family get together with Grandad Michael playing with his son Francis, while Steve played with his son – Michael’s grandson  
 
The 2025 runners-up Grange’s Hugh & Luke Bagnall were back in 2026 and unfortunately came up a tad short with a net 78 and will have to wait until 2027 for another tilt at the title.
 
Wonderful to see the elder stateman of Castle Golf Club, Des Leavy Snr (almost 95) and his son Des (eh!) Junior playing again this year – sadly they just failed to qualify – but you know what it is the competing that is important and more over and more precious are the memorable moments spent shoulder to shoulder – Father & Son.
 
Another steady start to their Father & Son campaign from Castle’s Liam & Larkin playing opposite David & Noel Joyce, who are also qualifying.
 
It’s late on Saturday evening and it currently looks like all scores to 76 will qualify while some but not all of the 77’s might fall across the line.
Tough day in the office for many with strong breeze causing havoc to many scores – good news no disqualifications.
 
Well done to all who qualify and hard luck to those who have missed out.
 
 Mamma Mia Here I go again….
My! My! – How can I play again
Next year…  Next Year…
Do I show again …..
Next Year… Next Year….
Mamma Mia!!!   
 
For those leaving us now, - next year, you will be older as will your Dad! – Make the most of the time you have together - these are special days that will not be with you for ever.
Cherish and Enjoy.
Hope to see you in 2027 when you will have another opportunity to create life lasting memories.
 
For those of you fortunate enough to qualify for the match play, we look forward to welcoming you back to the blog tomorrow when the draw is announced.
Father & Son Daily Post
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