The Early Years of Omagh Golf Club

Omagh Golf Club dates from 24th February 1910 when it held its first General Meeting in the Courthouse, Omagh. However, the Irish Field on 2nd October 1909 reported the foundation of Tyrone Golf Club on 24th September 1909 and also the existence of another club founded 1892. (The Honorary Secretary of the latter Club is given as Miss Fleming, Palisade House, Omagh. There were 20 lady members and 25 new members in the Club.)

An entry in the Golfing Annual 1891/92 confirms the earlier existence of golf at Omagh. The Belfast Newsletter, 1st May 1891, also lists an Omagh Golf Club with a membership of 20 and names the Honorary Secretary as Captain H. H. Stewart. This earlier Omagh Golf Club is recorded as an affiliated Club in the Golfing Annual 1896/97 and is continuously listed until the 1909/10 Annual which gives an institutional date of 1892. The location of this older club is not stated but anecdotal evidence suggests Rash on the Derry Road, outside Omagh.

 
The establishment of Omagh Golf Club began with that historic meeting in the Courthouse in September 1909. In the Chair that evening was Mr Francis Shields, a local solicitor, and on the proposal of Mr J Anderson, seconded by Mr John Devlin, Chairman of the Urban District Council, it was resolved that a Club be formed and that it be named The Tyrone Club. Captain Auchinleck was elected President and a committee was formed to acquire land and to put same in order.
In October 1909 Mr Bailie, a well-known course architect, approved the land and it was leased from the landlord, Captain Auchinleck.
 

At the General Meeting held in the Courthouse in February 1910 it was decided to change the name to Omagh Golf Club and the Secretary was instructed to call a meeting of Council to draft rules and bye-laws. 
 

From these modest beginnings the club has flourished for almost 100 years through the energy and commitment of countless members who gave their time unstintingly for the good of the club. We owe them a huge debt which we can repay by continuing their work.  

Peter Mathers

Omagh Golf Club.........Looking Forward

At the EGM on September 24, 2007 Omagh Golf Club members were impressed by the vision and drive of Mr Michael McElroy, Trustee, in his plan for a new clubhouse. Members unanimously supported his proposal.
Unfortunately due to the financial climate theese plans had to be put on hold indeffinitely.

Our course continues to improve year-on-year and it proves to be a test for the low handicapper and yet enjoyable for those of us who take the game less seriously! The Greens committee and  grounds staff are determined to ensure that the course stays in tip top condition. Our greens are the envy of almost all local clubs and the course remains playable all year round despite the vagaries of the Irish climate! This is evidenced by the popularity of the winter and spring leagues.

Our Junior membership thrives under the stewartship of George and Paddy with up to 100 boys and girls playing on Thursdays in July and August; new youngsters are always made welcome.

In 2010 Omagh Golf Club celebrates its centenary. A committee has been set up to plan for the biggest year in our history. On behalf of the Captain and council of Omagh Golf Club I invite you to join us; you won't be disappointed!