When I was a kid, I spent my summers playing pitch and putt on the local course with my mates. It was there, in Clara, Co. Offaly, that I learned the basics and honed my short game without even knowing it. I started playing golf proper when I was 12. My family wasn’t really into golf, so I taught myself how to play. I took every chance I had to get out on the course. I can’t say it didn’t frustrate my family and teachers a bit back then. I think they’ve forgiven me now though.
