The FootJoy golf days have just come to an end for the 2009 season. Two days have been hosted, one in Ireland and one in the UK, both proving to be very enjoyable events.  The days involved some of the Tour’s leading players giving up their time to socialise and play a few holes with some of FootJoy’s valued customers.

Carton House, Ireland – Monday 18th May 2009

Carton House, Ireland was the first port of call for the FootJoy team and with the line up on show, the day was sure to be a huge success. Among the invitees were a certain Padraig Harrington (right), a young talented Rory McIlroy (below left), European Tour winner Michael Hoey (below right) and an up-and-coming Gareth Maybin (below middle). The word soon got around that two of Ireland’s hottest sports stars were in town, and the public emerged, trying to get a glimpse of their heroes.
The day started with a clinic on the range and was compered by BBC commentator Shane O’Donoghue, who asked some testing questions to the players. A master class of shots was given by all four players before a long drive competition was won, for the second consecutive year, by Rory McIlroy. Heading out onto the course, each of FootJoy’s valued customers had an opportunity to play with all four Tour players, a good opportunity for them to see how their nerve held in the presence some of the best players in the world. The round was a relaxed affair until the groups reached the par 3 17th. This hole was entitled ‘Beat the Open Champion’. All players played the hole with Padraig, and if they were fortunate enough to beat him they would receive a signed €5 from his own wallet. Being the competitive person that Padraig is, he informed the FootJoy team that he wasn’t expecting to lose any money!  In the end he only had to hand over 2 signed €5 notes to a couple of worthy winners. The hole was made even more special for the guests as the two time Open winner brought along his Claret Jug and USPGA Trophy for a once in a lifetime photo opportunity.
With the pressure and delight of playing against these special players, the guests were ready to get to the 19th for a refreshing pint of the famous Irish Guinness. After another photo opportunity and prize giving, the guests headed back home, ready to tell all about the day they played with four great Tour players and also took on the Open Champion.

Bearwood Lakes, UK – Monday 27th July 2009

The second and last stop for the 2009 FootJoy golf days was Bearwood Lakes. Similar to the day in Ireland, the line up was very exciting. The valued customers were going to have the opportunity to take on Ryder Cup Player Graeme McDowell, 2008 Order of Merit winner Robert Karlsson and the charismatic Peter O’Malley. The range session was hosted by McDowell and Karlsson who put on a master class of shots as well taking the guest’s questions. The tall Swede was unable to hit shots due to an eye injury, but still contributed with witty banter with both Graeme and guests. One of the highlights form the range session came when Karlsson was asked what was it the made him win the Order of Merit. Graeme dutifully answered for him, it because he is great! The light hearted approach by both players helped relax the guests as they headed to the course for what was to be a very enjoyable round of golf.
With the sun shinning, and the course in impeccable condition, some fantastic golf was played in the company of the three Tour Players. The par 3 14th was the hole when the pressure was upped. As the guests made their way to the 14th tee they were greeted by Peter O’Malley.  The humorous Australian informed the groups that he was going to play against them and if they beat him they would receive a signed and framed £5 note. The wind was blowing into the players faces making it a tough 4/5 iron. Showing a similar competitive edge to Harrington, O’Malley was beaten only four times, once to a birdie and then again by a fortunate group who took advantage of his only bogey of the day. After taking on Peter on the 14th the groups made their way to the club house for a well earned drink, still discussing with each other the highs and lows of their round.

With two fantastic days at Carton House and Bearwood Lakes, the FootJoy Team are going to have work hard on next year’s days to ensure they are as successful and enjoyable as the 2009 events.

FJ #1 Shoe and Glove in Golf.

FJ