The Golf Course That Trump Couldn’t Buy: A Tale of Commitment and Beauty
News Summary
Old Head Golf Course in Kinsale, Ireland, rejected multiple purchase offers from Donald Trump and others, showcasing the O’Connor family’s commitment to preserving its beauty. Described as the ‘most spectacular golf course in the world’, it holds a rich history and a unique ecological setting. The family’s refusal signals their dedication to maintaining the integrity of this remarkable golfing gem.
The Golf Course That Trump Couldn’t Buy: A Tale of Commitment and Beauty
Picture this: It’s 2004, and Patrick O’Connor is out fishing, enjoying a serene day on the water, when he receives an unexpected call from none other than Donald Trump. Seems like a casual request for a business transaction, right? Well, hold on to your hats because this is where it gets interesting. Trump was inquiring about Old Head Golf Course, nestled in breathtaking Kinsale, a pearl of a place in Ireland.
Not for Sale, Not Even for Trump
Now, when Trump expressed his desire to buy the famous golf course, O’Connor didn’t hesitate to lay down the law. He let the business mogul know that the course wasn’t for sale, not for love or money. In fact, he cheekily stated that Trump couldn’t afford it. Trump came in hot with a generous offer, but alas, no negotiations took place as O’Connor stood firm. This wasn’t the first time the O’Connors faced Trump’s interest; two years prior, he had attempted to make a connection through mutual friends, but the response was a resounding no.
The O’Connors and Their Valuable Gem
Fast forward to current times, and Lhara O’Connor, Patrick’s daughter and the CEO of Old Head, shed some light on the family’s somewhat casual relationship with Trump. It turns out Patrick had played golf at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago, but that didn’t cloud their judgment when it came to the love and care they have for Old Head.
Old Head isn’t just any golf course; it’s been dubbed “the most spectacular golf course in the world” by Links magazine. With its unique setting on a jaw-dropping 300-foot cliff that towers over the Atlantic Ocean, it’s almost as if it was handpicked by nature itself to host golfers. To add a sprinkle of history, a lighthouse from 1853 keeps watch over the course, making it all the more enchanting.
From Memberships to Waitlists
For anyone looking to become a member, be prepared for a hefty price tag of €60,000. And with a waiting list that showcases the coveted nature of this golfing jewel, it’s no wonder that around 75% of its members hail from America. Local golfers have shared a collective sigh of relief knowing that Trump’s offers were turned down, worried that his ownership could have overshadowed the course’s reputation during his presidency.
From Offers to Declines
It’s not just Trump that has been vying for Old Head; a recent €400 million offer from Asia was also turned down. And why not? Brent Dornford, Old Head’s marketing director, made it clear that the course is truly “priceless” with no plans for sale in sight. The O’Connor brothers originally acquired the land for Old Head back in 1989 for a mere £200,000, after the previous owner’s struggles with disturbances from dog walkers.
More than Just a Golf Course
But Old Head isn’t solely about golf. The 15th hole, known as “Haulie’s Leap,” carries its own unique story, commemorating a close call for a contractor who nearly met his end in a truck accident. Additionally, Lhara O’Connor has personal ties to a tragic historical event: the Lusitania, which sank nearby and played a part in bringing the U.S. into World War One.
As you can see, Old Head of Kinsale isn’t just another golf course; it’s a treasure trove of history, ecological significance, and unrivaled natural beauty. The O’Connors have created a sanctuary that blends the love of the game with the magnificence of the Irish coast, showcasing that some treasures are indeed meant to remain untouched. With Trump’s offers firmly in the past, Old Head stands as a testament to the O’Connors’ commitment to preserving what they hold dear.
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