The KPMG Women’s Irish Open returns to Dromoland Castle this weekend as amateurs and professional alike compete on the Co Clare course. 

Joey Carbery told Henry McKean on The Anton Savage Show women’s golf is “thriving”. 

“It’s such a great sport... it’s a great exhibition of women’s talent.” 

Many eyes are on Irish golfer Leona Maguire who has teamed up with KPMG in their new ‘Books for Birdies’ initiative. 

Since June, the company has donated children’s books to local communities around Dromoland for every birdie recorded by Ms Maguire, and will do this for every player at the Open this weekend. 

“It’s a fantastic initiative,” she said. 

“We’ve got about 100 books now... the entire field can contribute now and hopefully we can get that number as high as possible for the kids.” 

Ms Maguire she’s “excited” to play in Dromoland again following a successful game last year. 

“I know there’s been a lot of effort and time put in to make the event even better this year,” she said. 

“The course is looking well, and practice and preparation is going well.” 

How do you get out of a bunker? @leona_maguire gives tips. Join us live at the @KPMGWomensOpen with @AntonSavageShow @NewstalkFM from 9am at @dromolandcastle. #womensirishopen pic.twitter.com/swEw5lMq9q

— Henry McKean (@HenryMcKean) September 2, 2023

Ms Maguire agreed more young women are interested in golf and encouraged everyone to get involved – but to avoid sand bunkers. 

“Golf, more so nearly than most sports, is a very mental sport – a lot of people have a fear of bunkers,” she said. 

“But it’s hard to beat practice... The more times you do it the more comfortable you are.” 

Other Irish players this weekend include Áine Donegan, Beth Coulter, Sara Byrne and Kate Lanigan. 

Elite golf amateur Aideen Walsh said the game in Dromoland is “extra special being a local”. 

“It's just amazing to see the whole thing up and running,” she said. 

“There is a thing called local knowledge, but it does bring a certain expectation. 

“I just want to go out and enjoy it this week and not too much pressure on myself.”

Aideen Walsh watches her tee shot at KPMG Irish Women's Open, 01/09/2023. Image: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

Locals all thought the Open has brought more and more women into golf – particularly younger ages. 

Dromoland Lady Captain Michelle Bennett said budding players are able to meet the best players in Europe this weekend – including many of Ireland’s own. 

“They were giving the junior girls lessons during the week,” she said. 

“They're interacting, they're showing the next generation what it’s about.” 

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