If a picture is said to tell a thousand words, then this one is worth a whole library.

Leona Maguire was one of only three Irish golfers, and the only one to make the cut, at the revival of the KPMG Women’s Irish Open in 2022. This week at Carton House, she will be at the forefront of a group of 16.

Winning on her home open would be a career highlight, but what she has helped to create across the generations following her is arguably worth so much more in the long run.

Calm, focused, and noticeably relaxed, Maguire is back in Ireland for a tournament she relishes, not only for the competition, but for what it means to the sport, and to the next generation of Irish players.

“It’s always one of my favourite events of the year,” she said at Carton House yesterday. “They did a fantastic job last year, attracting great crowds, creating a great atmosphere. The course is in great shape again, and I’m really looking forward to the week.”

Maguire, who recently put in a strong showing at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and then played well again at the Dow Championship on the LPGA Tour over the weekend, feels her game is trending in the right direction.

“I feel like I’ve built some good momentum. It’s always nice to come into this week with your game in good shape, and even better when you’re playing in front of home fans.”

This year, Maguire is far from the only Irish headline. Sixteen Irish players, including four LET rookies and several top amateurs, are in the field, a testament to the strength of the women’s game in Ireland.

“That’s what this event is all about,” she said. “It’s important for them to get the experience of playing a big event, with the grandstands, the crowds, the big golf course. I played nine holes with Olivia Costello and Lauren Walsh this morning. Olivia was a little nervous (she’s 16 years old), but she’ll learn a lot this week. It’s nice to see so many of the girls doing well.”

And she means it. As much as Maguire is the standard-bearer for Irish golf, she clearly relishes the chance to share the platform.

“With 16 Irish in the field, it may take a little bit of pressure off me,” she smiled. “I felt like in the early years I had a lot on my shoulders, but now there are a few more helping out.”

There’s no denying the Irish Open carries a different kind of weight. Not necessarily pressure, Maguire insists, but logistics, expectations, and emotion.

“It’s just a very busy week,” she admitted. “There’s so much going on. Normally, I’m flying in last minute from somewhere else, and there’s not the same time to prep. I’ve learned over the years not to overdo it Monday to Wednesday and leave something in the tank for the weekend.”

The mental fatigue of a demanding schedule – this is week four of a five-week run – is real. “Energy levels can dip, so the home support definitely gives you a lift. The fans want someone Irish to do well, and you want to play well for them. You just have to be careful not to force things.”

Still, the crowds are part of what makes this event special. Maguire lit up recalling last year’s final hole. “Walking up 18 with fans four and five deep – those are the moments you remember. The Irish fans are knowledgeable, they’re supportive, and they just love their golf.”

And the impact stretches well beyond the ropes.

Maguire knows full well the power of visibility. “It’s one thing watching on TV. It’s another seeing it live. For young girls, and boys too, seeing professional golf up close might be that little spark of inspiration.”

She remembers being that kid herself watching Irish legends at the Irish Open and dreaming of someday doing the same. Now she’s the one signing autographs by the dozen.

“You try to get to everyone, but it’s never possible. Last year I was sending Christmas presents and signed hats in the post to make up for ones I missed.”

It’s a responsibility she embraces. “It’s a small part of my day that can make a big difference. It’s still a bit surreal – why do they want my autograph? But they’ve come out to support us, and it’s important to give something back.”

On the course, Maguire is feeling quietly confident.

Her coach, Shane, walked the course with her this week, fine-tuning rather than overhauling. “We’re fairly ready to go for Thursday,” she said simply.

With extended family expected over the weekend, including many from her home county of Cavan, Maguire will have no shortage of support.

“They don’t get to see me play live very often, so it’s nice. I’m sure there’ll be a few Cavan jerseys in the crowd.”

“There’s still a lot going on this week. The golf might actually be the easiest part,” she laughed. “But this event has grown so much thanks to KPMG and the LET. When you see what it’s become, and how much it means to everyone, it’s all worth it.”

The Pro-Am is on Wednesday with the Championship starting on Thursday and running through to Sunday. If you love great sport, or want to inspire someone to do so for a lifetime of joy, there will not be many batter places to spend a day or four this week.

 

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