There is a long-established rapport between the three time major champion Padraig Harrington and the team at Turfgrass®.
In fact, John Clarkin founder of Turfgrass® played Harrington in the Munster Boys back in 1988! One became an international professional golfer, the other to run an international golf development company. Their relationship continued when in 2000, Turfgrass® were asked to build and maintain a practice academy for Harrington at his private residence in Ireland. More recently, Harrington, through the Padraig Harrington Charitable Foundation and Turfgrass®, have partnered on a philanthropic project in Marlay Park Dublin, Ireland; the sustainable design, development and construction of a putting green to attract and introduce people of all ages and backgrounds to the game of golf.
Similar to the Himalayas Putting Green in St. Andrews in its design, the goal of The Marlay Park putting green is to provide enjoyment, affordability and accessibility to the game of golf for all. With a view to attracting new audiences to the sport, the 3000 square metre putting course will be open to all, providing a place for children and families to meet, have fun and help foster social ties within the community.
This is a consolidation of philanthropic team work, as highlighted by Padraig Harrington, “My sincere thanks go to John Clarkin and his team at Turfgrass®, Anthony Bennett at Atlantic Golf Construction, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and it’s Parks team, all the contractors who have also offered their time and services for free or at preferential rates, as well as both The R&A and Golf Ireland for their generous grants.”
Adds John Clarkin from Turfgrass®, “We are delighted to offer our services and participate in this community inspired project with Padraig, one that will hopefully encourage a new generation to get involved and see the fun side of golf. The green will be six times the size of an average green and incorporates various undulations which will provide some fun pin positions.”