Paul McCanny appointed as Director of Golf at Portmarnock Links

Paul McCanny, Director of Golf at Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links

Paul McCanny has been appointed as Director of Golf at Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links as the resort prepares to host the Challenge Tour’s Irish Challenge next week.

Before joining the team at Portmarnock, McCanny (36) most recently spearheaded the team at Killeen Castle where he was head PGA Professional and Golf Manager during 2011 Solheim Cup.  

Over the last three years, he has been helping with the development and support of the next generation of golfers while working as a Provincial Coach at Leinster Golf.

His passion for the sport began when he took on his first role at Black Bush Golf Club, an appointment that turned his passion into a career.

He said: “I am delighted to join the wonderful team at Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links. As a visitor to The Links over the last number of years, I have been hugely impressed by the improvements that have been made to the golf facilities and the hotel. 

“It is clear from talking to the new owners that they have ambitious plans for the future and I am very much looking forward to being involved in the continued development of such a beautiful golf destination.” 

Set in the grounds of the old Jameson Estate of St Marnocks, in 1858 the family developed a private 12-hole course that stretched as far as the infamous 15th at Portmarnock Golf Club. The Championship ‘Portmarnock Links’ course was later reimagined by Bernhard Langer in 1995. Along with architect Stan Eby, Langer designed a course that would provide a challenge, making use of the rugged dunes natural terrain with elevated tees and greens, blind approaches and doglegs.  

Portmarnock’s General Manager, William Kirby said: “Paul brings a wealth of golf experience to our team and marks an exciting next step for The Links. We have ambitious goals across the resort with golf being a key focus. We look forward to seeing The Links go from strength to strength under Paul’s guidance.”  

Now open for members and guests following Covid sanctioned closures, Portmarnock Golf Links will become the first links course to host the Irish Challenge when the tournament comes to the Dublin venue from 27th – 30th May 2021. The Challenge Tour event, featuring the next generation of golf's stars, forms part of the Road to Mallorca International Schedule, which comprises 25 tournaments in 15 countries across the world. 

Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links this week received the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award 2021, an accolade presented to the top 10% of hotels worldwide who have provided exemplary customer service and guest experiences.