Ballybunion......

We left Doonbeg this morning on our way to Ballybunion. It was tough to leave such a beautiful place as Doonbeg but we vowed that we would indeed be back, sooner than later. The Old Course at Ballybunion is the stuff of legend and I couldn't wait to get there. She is continually ranked as one of the top links courses in the world and I was about to see why. First things first though. We had to get there and the most direct route required a short trip across the Killimer Ferry. It should be noted that Kristen's last ferry experience was across the English Channel. Let's just say, it didn't go well. That being said, there was some apprehension about our ride this morning. Despite the worry, our trip today was without incident and we soon found ourselves in front of the clubhouse at Ballybunion. 

 

As luck would have it, the rains and wind found us again as we teed off. I was paired with a father/son from the Washington DC area. Kristen assumed her position alongside the first tee, waterproofs on and umbrella in hand. I was hoping for a break in the weather so that she would make the whole way round. No such luck as the winds increased and the rain never let up. Four pars through the first six and what seemed like three inches of rain later, Kristen had had enough. She found a new home and best friend in the turn house. Kristen and Eleanor  (turn house manager) became fast friends inside. As we made the turn, Kristen gave it one more try before retiring to the much more hospitable weather conditions in the clubhouse, sunny and 72! I pressed on... I hate that she didn't get to see the whole course as some of these holes along the Atlantic would prove to be some of the most memorable of the trip. Beautiful. Demanding, Frustrating. Unforgettable......

The course was amazing and I was so glad to have been able to see it. I will admit that I was glad the round was over though as the weather was brutal all day. Kristen on the other hand, took advantage of the warmer, drier climate inside the clubhouse to get some of her school work done. I dried out in the locker room and then made my way upstairs for some hot seafood chowder etc.... Soon after we loaded up and headed to Killarney, our home for the next several days.