Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Waterville and the Ring of Kerry
Lucy met us just outside the entrance to Waterville. She didn't have much to say, but the look in her eyes told me she wanted to play too. It was quite a pretty drive on the way in to Waterville. The two hour trip took us counterclockwise along the Ring of Kerry (Thanks again Johnny) up and down several mountains before settling in by the Atlantic Ocean there in Waterville. It looked as though the weather forecast was going to be in our favor as the sun was out and there was only a slight breeze. Perfect weather for such a beautiful course. We arrived in time to enjoy the "Full Irish" breakfast before hitting the links. playing the links at Waterville. After a brief warm up session we were ready to go. My caddy was a college student named Rowan. He was a good caddy and a nice young man, very respectful etc...Kristen joined us along the way but I could tell she was tired. She didn't get a good nights sleep last night and was dragging a bit. We would finish the first nine back by the clubhouse and she eventually went into the clubhouse to try rest and get some of her school work done (MBA). I played well and really enjoyed the course and friendly weather. I could see why the late great Payne Stewart spent so much time here in Waterville. A statue was erected in his honor in 2000.
The fairways here were a bit more generous than some of the previous courses played this week (Lahinch and Ballybunion) but the views were just as impressive. I loved how the ocean sat to one side with the river framing up the other side. So peaceful out there. Hope you enjoy the views. I know we did....
I joined Kristen for some lunch in the clubhouse after the round before we headed back to Killarney. While hanging out in the clubhouse she decided that the clubhouse if where it all really happens. She observed the members sitting about, solving the worlds problems as they watched players finishing their rounds through the windows overlooking the course. Some of those men probably never set foot on the course that day. They still had plenty of fun I can guarantee it. I am so glad we came down here as it was an enjoyable morning for sure. The back half of the Ring of Kerry on our way home would proved to offer much the same.
The Ring of Kerry is a two lane highway that winds its way around the Kerry Peninsula in the very southwest portion of Ireland. There are some beautiful views of the mountains as well as the sea along the way. We didn't know what to expect as we took the Ring of Kerry, however, we are very glad we did. Ireland is such a beautiful place and she sure proved it on our way back. I continue to be impressed with this place...
Not far outside of Killarney, we ran across this beautiful lake up in the mountains. We had to stop and take a look. Several fishermen were down by the water's edge working on their limit of rainbow trout. We also made some more new friends along the way.
One last stop at the Torc Waterfall....
Today was a good day.....
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