An Outline of Golf and Tennis in Ireland

Ireland has a rich history of sporting pursuits, with the games of Golf and Tennis gaining great popularity over the last century. Indeed, it was very soon after the patenting of ‘lawn tennis’ sets by Major Walter Wingfield in 1874 that the game was introduced to the country, and the precursor to this game known these days as ‘real tennis’ had been played in Ireland over two hundred years previous to this. Likewise, golfing in Ireland dates back to at least the mid 1800’s, and many of the country’s oldest golf courses are still in use today.

Ireland has a wide selection of over 300 golf courses, from links courses to parkland and meadowland courses. Golf in Ireland is accessible to golfers of every skill level and budget and many of the golf clubs have excellent professional golf shops which have a wide range of clubs, accessories together with hats and visors.

Unfortunately, more people are out of work and therefore they have more time on hand to play sports. Golf Clubs are making facilities more accessible because of the recessionary times we live in and they have reduced green fees considerably to encourage more players onto the golf courses. Clubs have become more creative with their discount ideas to enable golfers to either take up golf for the first time or to encourage them to play more often.

The number of Golf Clubs approved under Failte Ireland’s National Standards Framework for Golf Clubs has risen to 63, with 30 more clubs now Quality Assured. These new standards contribute to developing the sport of golf in Ireland and to ensure quality and value for those who enjoy a round of golf.

Tennis in Ireland is a very popular sport for both young and old and it is more than a sport, it can be a great social occasion for those playing in summer and winter leagues and meeting new people who are participating in these leagues. Competitions throughout the year also add to the social and competitive aspect of the game.

There are some excellent tennis coaches and a variety of tennis training facilities which can be used outdoors throughout the year because of the mild climate Ireland enjoys both winter and summer. Some of the more established tennis clubs play on grass courts from early spring to autumn.

Playing tennis on a regular basis is good for the body, heart and mind. All of these benefits play a role in reducing a person’s risk of developing heart disease, which is the number one killer for men and women.

Among the other benefits of playing tennis are the improvements in balance, strength, mobility and fitness and it burns up lots of calories. A man can burn up to 600 calories during a game of singles and a woman 420 calories. Ideally, before a game of tennis a few stretching exercises may minimize the risk of muscle or limb injury.

Tennis is for all ages. Last year, 11.3 million adults in the USA aged 25 and up played tennis at least once. The overall challenge and joy of playing tennis makes it a great sport and increases bone health and lowers the risk of developing heart disease.

Take a look at golf accessories to aid your game, as well as tennis accessories and hats for women and men, at Extrum Sports.