At Lahinch Golf Club, that wonderful relic in County Clare, a broken barometer with the message “See Goats” hangs outside the clubhouse. In days gone by, the thought was that weather forecasting was not necessary, since the goats that roamed the course headed towards the shelter of the clubhouse area when they sensed an oncoming tempest. Speaking of the course, it has recently been revamped with some incredible new holes, while others have been restored to their MacKenzie roots, and is truly world-class. Only the classic Klondyke and Dell holes remained unchanged, and rightfully so. These holes date back to the late 1800’s and the original Old Tom Morris design (Alister MacKenzie redesigned the course in 1927). Anywhere else, they may have been bulldozed, but here at Lahinch, they are “as precious as yeast to Guinness!” A “traffic cop” guides play from the top of the outrageous mound built by Old Tom in the center of the fairway on Klondyke (now the 4th), keeping players safe on the criss-crossing 18th. The green on the Dell (the 5th) is completely hidden between two more mounds. If you happen to ace it, beware, as it could be a ploy to get a larger tip for your caddy! Lahinch itself is one of our favorite towns in Ireland, with great little pubs and restaurants, and the finest seafood we have ever experienced!