Royal Dublin
Bill Clinton
42nd President of the United States (1991-2001)
William Jefferson Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, is an avid golfer who twice enjoyed the hospitality of The Royal Dublin Golf Club.
The first occasion was August 25th, 2004, when the then former President was in Dublin to promote his autobiography “My Life.”
He spent the morning signing an estimated 1500 copies of his book at the well known Eason’s bookshop before travelling the couple of miles out of the city to play Royal Dublin.
The President was welcomed to the club by the 2004 Captain John McDevitt, and his father, Frank McDevitt who was the Royal Dublin President.
On that occasion, President Clinton played with friends, and his caddie was Anthony “Anto” Birney, the club’s much-loved starter and locker room steward.
The next visit by Bill Clinton was in October 2011, and this time his playing partners were three-time Major champion Pádraig Harrington and The Edge of U2 fame.
Anto Birney was once again commissioned for caddie duties.
On his return to the USA, the 42nd President spoke admiringly of Pádraig’s physical prowess, saying: “He is a marvellous guy, but by God, he looks like he could play professional football.”
It is to Bill Clinton’s credit that he did not forget Anto Birney, who retired from the club in 2009.
In 2015 on hearing that the former locker room steward was ill, golf writer Dermot Gilleece revealed that President Clinton had written a letter to Anto saying: "Dear Anto. I heard you're going through a difficult time. I'm deeply grateful for your kindness to me over the years and will always remember our rounds at Royal Dublin.
“I'm praying that you'll gain comfort and strength from the love of your family and friends and I send my warmest wishes. Sincerely, Bill Clinton. PS. Hang in there."
Sadly, Anto, an Honorary member of The Royal Dublin Golf Club, passed away on October 2, 2016.
R.I.P
The Royal Dublin Golf Club
North Bull Island Nature Reserve , Dollymount, Dublin 3 , Ireland
Phone: +353 1 833 6346 Fax: +353 1 833 6504
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