Chatting with Sophie Geogh

Sophie Geogh is a young lady and a proud Junior Member at my home club, Corrstown Golf Club.

Sophie is visually impaired and has been playing golf regularly since she was 13 years old. She now represents Irish Blind Golf and DIGA, and this year she will travel to tournaments abroad representing Ireland.

I had the pleasure of playing a round with Sophie last Saturday. Her dad, Keith, acts as her guide on the course, helping her to set up, tee the ball up, aim correctly and support her in many other ways throughout the round. They are a brilliant duo, and it was truly inspiring to watch them work so closely and confidently together.

It was a great to play a round and chat with Sophie about her golf journey.

Q. Tell us your story Sophie – how did you first get into golf?

I was first introduced to golf at an event for visually impaired and blind people called Mayfest, which is held in UCD every year. Irish Blind Golf had a “come and try” station there, and I thought, why not give it a shot?

After that, I began attending come-and-try sessions with Irish Blind Golf. Someone later told me about a pitch and putt group, so I joined and played for about a year and a half. While I enjoyed it and had good fun taking part, I realised I wanted to take golf more seriously.

I then joined Ashbourne Golf Club and worked on getting my handicap. After some time, I moved on from there. Since then, I’ve continued developing my game and pushing myself to improve.

Q. What has been your proudest golfing moment so far?

My proudest moment so far has been playing in Tulfarris and winning the Ciaran Jones Memorial Award. That was a very special achievement for me.

Q. How many tournaments do you take part in each year (Ireland & International)?

With Irish Blind Golf I’m taking part in my first two international events, one in Spain in May and the British Blind Open in England in July. I’m really looking forward to both of them.

I would especially like to thank Irish Blind Golf for all their help and support, and for taking me under their wing. It has been an amazing few years so far, and I’m excited for many more to come.

I’m also hoping to attend 6 events for DIGA this season and get more experience playing different courses as well with DIGA.

DIGA is an Irish organisation dedicated to promoting inclusive golf, making the sport accessible for everyone, including those with disabilities and long-term health challenges. They actively support disabled golf and host various inclusive golf events to ensure that all golfers feel welcome.

Also thank you also to DIGA for welcoming me and giving me the opportunity to play some fantastic courses. I’m really looking forward to this years events with them.

Q. How many days a week do you train and where?

I train once or twice a week. I practise at Swingyard and at my home club Corrstown.

A huge thank you to my coach Brian in Corrstown Golf Club for all his help, support, encouragement, and especially for his patience with me.

Q. What advice would you give to someone hoping to start out in golf?

Take your time and enjoy it — even when things aren’t going well. Golf can be challenging, but sticking with it and enjoying the journey is what matters most.

Q. What is your favourite club in your bag?

My 7 iron. It has never let me down and always goes a good distance for me.

Q. What is your favourite golf course you’ve played, apart from your own club?

Portumna Golf Club. It’s a lovely course with some very interesting and varied holes.

Q. What is your current handicap and your future goal?

My current handicap is 54, and my goal is to bring it down to 40.

Q. Who is your biggest golfing hero and why?

Leona Maguire is a big inspiration to me. Leona herself is a patron to Irish Blind Golf and helps supports visually impaired athletes.