Today’s Waterville Experience
In 1987, Waterville was sold to a small group of Irish Americans. They loved the game of golf and set about carrying on the history and tradition of the Links. The new owners brought together the 18th Century, four star Waterville House with the Links to create one of the finest golf and fishing resorts in the world. The private Waterville House fishery, and in particular Butlers Pool next to the House, are famous for salmon and sea trout.
Waterville’s New Chapter
Waterville Golf Links embarked on a new chapter of its fabled history when noted international golf architect, Tom Fazio, was commissioned to update the memorable Eddie Hackett masterpiece. Fazio has assisted many of the world’s leading clubs including Winged Foot, Pine Valley and Augusta National.
The Fazio Renovation and an ongoing Coastal Management Program focused on the entire Links and its perimeter. A Fazio designed practice facility was added to the Estate grounds and a state of the art health facility was added for the enjoyment of House guests. All these projects will ensure Waterville’s future reputation as Ireland’s premier golf destination.
Everything about Waterville is truly spectacular. The setting is one of the best I have seen for golf.
-Tom Fazio
Where Champions Tread
Over forty of the world’s greatest champions from Sam Snead onwards have challenged the Links over the years. Prior to the 1998 Open, O’Meara, Stewart and Woods were joined by Appleby, Duval and Jansen, all of whom became members of Waterville.
Later that year at a ceremony during the now famous Ryder Cup in Brookline, Massachusetts, United States team member Payne Stewart accepted the Captaincy of Waterville – the last golf honour he would receive before his tragic death. Today, a life sized bronze statue pays tribute to his Captaincy and his special relationship with Waterville.
The Fazio Project
A Coastal Management Project preceded the Fazio Renovation, assuring its excellence would be enjoyed for generations to come.
Witness the four year Fazio Renovation in the blink of an eye. The first aerial photograph defines the Eastern and Western sectors of the Links. The fundamental objective was to harmonize their topography, while enhancing its challenge, beauty and traditional links playing surfaces.
The second aerial highlights the completed renovation and the ongoing refinements to the coastal protection.
Tom Fazio & Jay Connolly in conversation
