Golf Course Architecture - Issue 63, January 2021

49 the green and is teased into play by the rolling bentgrass approach, which penalises aggressive shots missed to the right. Similarly, for the fifteenth, the Maigue meanders around to hug the right-hand side of the hole and helps to frame the dogleg design with a defined right lining. Strategically, the river works in harmony with the bunkers on the fifteenth to narrow the fairway and approach in, as the river is prone to catching any stray balls, whilst the sizeable green-high bunkers on the left leave a nerve- wracking bunker shot with the river awaiting beyond the green. It’s a great example of how the river is used to create playing experiences that are as beautiful as they are strategic. As the course reaches its crescendo, the River Maigue assumes a starring role. On the final hole, water follows the action from tee to green, never leaving the player’s left-hand side until they cross safely on their approach to the green, which lies in the shadow of the manor house. Despite disaster lurking, it encourages players to take on the closing par five in two to avoid a scrutinising wedge shot in. This truly intimidating finish will play a lead role in staging some quite spectacular scenes come the JP McManus Pro-Am in 2021 and the Ryder Cup in 2027. Photo: Larry Lambrecht/Adare Manor “ The sound of the river also plays an important role as it tests the mental game of golfers, creating a subtle announcement of the water’s danger” In play from tee to green, the River Maigue stages a dramatic closing par five at Adare Manor