The Island Hunt: the Golf Links
Mr Robert W. Hall-Dare,
Bobby, as he was known, was Master of the Foxhounds of the
Island Hunt, and the hounds were kennelled at Newtownbarry
House. Sometimes, on a hunt day, the pack would be met by
children going to the girls’ National School at the convent who
were terrified as the baying pack of hounds approached them, the
huntsmen on their horses shouting at the dogs. ‘It was like hell
loosed.’
I remember a Hunt Ball being held in Hall-Dare’s house. Many
went over to look in through the windows at the dancing and the
beautiful dresses.
Behind St Mary’s Convent
was the Golf Links with its handsome pavilion. It was a
nine-hole course and a popular venue for golfers. Michael Carton
and his wife were very much involved in the golfing activities.
Occasionally a golf dance was organised and held in Courtown.
Anyone who had a motorcar gave lifts to that had no other way of
travelling, and it was always a great turn out. Everyone looked
forward to it for weeks beforehand.
Part of the golf course
was later converted into playing pitches for the convent
secondary school and the pavilion was demolished. Local golfers
then began to go to Coolattin.
A new golf course is now about to be opened at Carrigduff
(2008).