Baltinglass Golf Club Profiles

How did you first get into golf and what drew you to the sport?

One Saturday in Baltinglass my brother Stephen convinced me to go up to the golf course. Tom O’Neill was doing the lesson. I got back into the car that Saturday afternoon and said I wanted to go again the following week, so it was Stephen who dragged me into the golf really!  I was eight. He was six.

Then at what age did you start playing seriously? And when did you reach scratch?

I’d say I started playing casually at first, but I had good guidance along the way – especially in terms of what competitions to enter. My first tournament outside of Baltinglass was probably when I was around 11 or 12. I got down to scratch around the time I was turning 15, maybe just before – so I’d say I was 15 when I officially reached scratch.

Who would you say has had the biggest influence on your golfing journey so far?

Definitely my coach Tom O’Neill, and also Joe Byrne. I really looked up to Joe – especially when he won the Irish titles. That was something I aspired to. He was a big role model for me growing up in the club. Joe is 3 years ahead of me, so he was someone I looked up to as I was coming through the ranks.

What does a typical week of practice look like for you? How often do you practice?

I practice both with Tom and on my own. Some weeks, when my game isn’t feeling great, I’ll see Tom a bit more often and spend extra time on the range. During those times, it’s more about technical drills and block practice—really focusing on the mechanics. I’ve been working with Tom regularly for the past two and a half years, usually once a week. That’s mainly technical work. Then, during the week, I’ll usually take a rest day between sessions with Tom and have an on-course practice day to prepare for the weekend—whether it’s a competition or getting ready to travel for one.

What’s the most valuable advice Tom has given you? Can you narrow it down to one thing?

Definitely course management – how to work your way around the golf course. That’s been huge. Also, avoiding big scores by making smart decisions. Those are probably the two biggest takeaways from Tom. He’s great at keeping things simple. He doesn’t over-explain or complicate things, but he’s very clear about what you need to do and why. That clarity makes it easy to understand and apply. I really appreciate that about him. He also works with what you already have. He doesn’t try to completely change your swing or grip – he focuses on improving your natural game. For example, he didn’t mess around with my grip too much. Instead, he helped me adjust my wrist and hip movement to generate more speed and power. A few winters ago, we worked on changing my shot shape from a draw to a fade. I used to flick at the ball, which made it hard to get a solid impact position. Switching to a fade helped me strike the ball better and get a more consistent impact.

Do you focus on tracking performance metrics like clubhead speed, launch angle, etc.

I definitely went through a phase where I did. And honestly, the technology can help a lot – especially when it comes to finding the right driver and gaining distance. But I’ve found that real speed gains come more from gym work than from speed training alone. In the last 2–3 years, I’ve started doing proper weight training and structured gym sessions, especially during the winter, and then maintained it through the summer.

Do you think that’s helped your golf?

Absolutely. Strength and conditioning have made a big difference. And to be honest, it’s something you just have to do now – everyone’s doing it, and there’s no getting around it.

How would you say you prepare mentally for big tournaments or tough rounds? Is there anything you do, say, the day beforehand or the morning of the round or whatever to prepare?

It’s hard to pin down exactly, but I usually base my preparation on confidence. What I really want going into a tournament is a swing thought that I trust – something simple and clear that I can stick with throughout the round. If I feel like I need to sharpen something, I’ll go and see Tom for a quick check-in. I’m quite technical by nature, so having that one solid swing thought helps me feel grounded. That’s how I tend to approach most rounds. Of course, there are days when things just aren’t clicking. In those cases, I try to find something on the course that helps me get through – maybe an old swing thought or a small adjustment to avoid a recurring bad shot. But ideally, I go in with one clear idea and stick to it.

What have been your proudest moments on the golf course so far?

Winning the All-Ireland Junior Foursomes with Baltinglass in Castletroy was definitely a highlight.  Also, winning the Provincial Towns with Baltinglass was another big achievement. I think I was 12 when I qualified, and 13 when I played in the final. Joe caddied for me in that final, which was a cool experience. Looking back, I was probably a bit young and didn’t fully grasp how big it was – but it was very special. That was a Leinster title. Then in 2020, during the first COVID year, I was part of the Jimmy Bruen team. We played fourballs and won the Leinster title. The All-Irelands were pushed to the following year, so that was my first time playing in an All-Ireland. I partnered with Stephen Mann. We didn’t win the final, but I got to do my first interview after the semi-final, and just being part of an All-Ireland was an incredible experience. You could really feel how much golf meant to everyone involved.

What about any individual or representative appearances in the amateur scene?

I played in the interpros in both 2022 and 2024, and I think my record is five wins and one loss, so I’m pretty happy with that. One standout moment for me was being selected as one of the top six players in Leinster that year – it was a real honour to represent the province. In 2022, I was playing under-16s. When I played in the interpros in 2022, it felt like the selection was based on my match play experience. I’d like to think I’m fairly experienced for my age when it comes to match play. I’m comfortable with it and enjoy the format. Of course, most tournaments these days are stroke play, so I’m used to that too. But match play always stands out – it’s a format I’ve played a lot and really enjoy.

Have you played in any of the big amateur events yet?

Not yet. This is my first year playing in the men’s category, so I’ve moved out of junior golf – and it’s a big step up. I was chatting with Tom recently about how much of a change it is. The courses are on a completely different level – now it’s Lahinch, Baltray, Rosses Point, etc. – it’s a big jump. This year has definitely been a learning curve. Things didn’t go my way in the big tournaments, even though I didn’t feel like I played badly. I’ve been playing well at Baltinglass, but the results just didn’t fall into place in the bigger events. Still, it’s all part of the learning process.

How have you adapted, say, to playing links courses? Do you think your game was suited to those?

I went in with the idea that I was a good links player and I think I still am. But just the proper challenge of courses, it tests you so much and there there’s a there’s a skill to play in championship golf. I think that it just comes from experience. Unless you have some extremely good skills, you can’t do it first time. But I just need to learn that as the years go on, learning to play big links, championship golf. That’ll come with time.

Is there a particular round or shot that stands out in your memory, and what’s your best round in Baltinglass, actually?

I’ve shot a 65 there, which was definitely a standout round. It included 9 birdies, 3 bogeys, and 6 pars – very eventful! Another round that comes to mind was at the Connacht Strokeplay in Portumna last year (2024). It was only my second men’s event, and I wasn’t even aware there was a cut. I think I shot +4 in the first round and was a couple over in the second. It was a 36-hole event played in one day, and by late evening, I was +4 with six holes to go. I managed to play the last five holes in three under to make the cut – it was my first time making a cut in a men’s event. Even though it didn’t carry huge significance, it meant a lot to me personally and definitely stands out as a memorable moment.

Any particular shot that stands out?

Yes, one shot in the All-Ireland Junior Foursomes final really stands out. We were two down after 13, but we won the 14th hole. Then on the 15th, I hit an iron shot to about 15 feet for birdie. We only needed two putts, but that shot was a turning point in the match – it shifted the momentum. I remember the lads behind us were also in a tight spot, so the pressure was on. That moment really sticks with me. It was a key shot in the final.

Do you have a favourite hole in Baltinglass and why?

Definitely the 10th. It’s a par 5 with a real chance of making eagle. If you can cut the corner and hit a big drive, you’re left with a short iron in, which makes it a great scoring opportunity. There are a few different ways to play it. Sometimes I’ll hit a 3-iron over the corner instead of driver, especially in tournaments. When I’m playing casually with friends, I’m more likely to go for it with driver and leave myself a mid-iron in. But in competition, I usually try to hook a 3-iron around the corner to leave a long iron – or sometimes even a 3-wood – into the green. It’s always a hole where birdie or eagle is in play, which makes it exciting.

How many holes would you typically hit driver on at Baltinglass?

Honestly, nearly all of them – except maybe the 6th and 14th. Other than that, I’m hitting driver everywhere. I’ve played Baltinglass so many times over the years that I feel confident hitting driver almost anywhere. No matter where it ends up, I usually find a way to make par. My game has really improved around the course, especially in terms of scoring, so I’m comfortable being aggressive off the tee.

What would you say is the strongest part of your game?

I’d say my short game. I remember when I was younger, I didn’t hit the ball very far, so I had to rely heavily on my short game to stay competitive. That early focus really stuck with me, and even now, I feel confident in my ability to get out of tough situations around the green.

I’ve noticed that too – you’re very decisive. You don’t overthink shots, you just step up and hit them.

Yeah, I try not to hang around too much. Once I’ve made my decision, I commit to it and go. That mindset helps, especially when things aren’t going perfectly. I trust my short game to bail me out when needed, and I’m happy with where it’s at.

If there was one weaker part of your game, what would you say it is? And are you working on it? What are you doing to improve?

For the last few years, I’d have said my irons and approach shots were the weakest part of my game. I’ve definitely made progress there, but this year I’d probably say my driving has been more of a challenge. It tends to shift a bit – so overall, I’d say my long game has never been my strongest area. I’ve always had a solid short game, but my irons are probably still the part I need to work on most. It’s something I’ve consistently focused on and will probably continue to work on going forward.

What’s your favourite course you’ve ever played?

This year was my first time playing nearly all the men’s events, and I was really looking forward to playing Lahinch. I visited last year to watch Brian Doran compete in the South of Ireland, and walking the course then left a big impression on me. Getting the chance to actually play it this year was incredible. I know some people say Baltray is the better course, and I get that – it’s more straightforward, with fewer blind tee shots. Everything’s laid out in front of you, which feels fairer. But for me, the experience of playing Lahinch, where Jon Rahm won the Irish Open in 2019, was just amazing. Sure, Lahinch has its quirks – lots of blind tee shots that some players don’t love – but I think that’s part of its charm. It’s a course that really makes you think. Personally, I thought it was fantastic.

What are your short term and long term goals in golf?

In fourth year in school, I always thought about going to America for college because that’s where everyone goes to play golf at a high level. One of my coaches asked why I wanted to go, and I said, “I want to be the best, so I have to go and be with the best.” That’s why I’m heading to America for college. My long-term goals depend on how the four years in America go. There are so many ways to get into professional golf now, so I’ll see where those four years take me and hope I find the right path. As for Irish golfers in America, I’d guess there are about 20 of us on scholarships, maybe more, but I’m sure there are some I don’t know about.

The college I’m going to is in Georgia. They play golf in North and South Carolina and Florida, so the courses and weather should be great. It’s a very competitive school, known for all sports. People have asked if I’ll get to visit Augusta. It’s not too far – probably about two and a half to three hours away from where I’ll be. The weather will be warm all year round.

If you could play around with any 3 golfers, past or present, who would they be?

I’d say Tiger Woods was my first real golf hero. Then, when I started watching golf more seriously on TV, Brooks Koepka was at his peak around 2018–2019, and I was really impressed by his dominance. Even though he’s moved to LIV Golf, I still like him. So if I had to pick, I’d say my top three are Rory, Brooks, and Tiger.

Talk to me about your equipment then. What’s in your bag right now? Any favourite clubs or gear?

I got a new Titleist GT3 driver this February, and honestly, the difference in distance is unreal. I’ve never hit a golf club that far in my life. It’s just the driver that’s new – my irons are still the same ones I’ve had for about four years. I’m using the TaylorMade P770s, and my putter was originally from 2019. Well, actually, I had to replace my putter a couple of weeks after the All-Irelands because it had an indent on the face. I didn’t want to change models, so I found a second-hand model the exact same and stuck with it. So technically, I’ve had the same style of putter since 2019 – it’s the Spider. As for wedges, I play Vokeys – they’re solid.

Do you have any pre-round rituals or superstitions?

Not really – I wouldn’t say I’m superstitious. I don’t have a specific breakfast or routine I stick to before a round. The only small thing I do is with ball markers. I have a bag of them, and before a tournament or a week of golf, I’ll randomly pick one out and use that same marker for the rest of the week. It’s not a superstition exactly, but it’s a little habit I’ve kept.

Final question – what do you enjoy doing outside of golf?

I follow a lot of sports, so most of my time outside golf is spent keeping up with everything that’s going on. There’s always something to watch or follow, and I really enjoy staying up to date across different sports. Outside of that, there’s not much else I’m heavily into—it’s mostly sport-related for me.

Thanks a lot Neil and best of luck with your golfing journey!