FIPPA Newsletter - March 2007.
Welcome to this edition of the FIPPA Newsletter.
BILLY LYNCH - outgoing PPUI President.
Leading Irish businessman Billy Lynch joined the P.P.U.I. National Executive in 1998. He is a driven man who has achieved much in life. He accepted the P.P.U.I. Presidency in 2004 and has since been one of the most proactive and influential holders of that high office, popular with administrators, sponsors and players alike. The large attendance at P.P.U.I. National Convention 2007 acclaimed Billy as he took his leave of the NEC on February 24th. Billy spoke to fippa.net on the occasion of his retirement.
What achievements pleased you during your term of office?
One of the main achievements during my term office was the implementation of the Pitch and Putt Union of Ireland’s first Strategic Plan. Another key achievement during my time was to see the formation of a world body for Pitch and Putt and to see our former President Mervyn Cooney elected as the first President of this body (FIPPA). Two other members of the PPUI serve on this body, John Manning Assistant General Secretary and Board member Michael Murphy.
What disappointed you?
The biggest disappointment during my term is the drop in numbers; we are able to attract people into the game but are unable for whatever reason to hold onto them.
In what state do you believe The Pitch and Putt Union of Ireland is in as you hand over the reins?
Although the numbers have dropped slightly I believe the PPUI is on a strong footing. We have a real hard core of people who at times like this really put in a big effort and I have no doubt that in the coming years the numbers will be back up.
What do you think the future holds for Pitch and Putt in Ireland and Internationally?
In Ireland I think that clubs, if possible, should try and buy their courses and those that do own them should try and improve the facilities and not sell out to developers. On the International front I want to see Pitch and Putt expand, it’s good to see Australia back in the picture and for the first time we have contact with the South Americans (Chile) who were a big hit at the World Cup in Barcelona.
Your view of www.fippa.net?
Well John, as you know I am not one for the “television” however, from what I have heard it seems to be a very good site. Well done to Eero on his effort and commitment.
What are Ireland’s prospects in the 2007 European Team Championship? And at the 2008 World Cup?
Well, if I was a betting man I would be putting my money on Ireland to retain their European Championship and after the little hiccup at last years World Cup they will be all out to win that Championship for the first time in 2008.
How is the PPUI’s second Strategic Plan progressing?
The Strategic Planning group has been working hard over the past number of months and a draft Plan has been submitted to the NEC, it is hoped to have the Plan ready just after the Annual Convention. It will then be sent to County/Regional Boards and Clubs for consideration.
Your wife Mary has been a great support to you and is a keen Pitch and Putt player. How would you sum up her involvement in Pitch and Putt?
Mary has indeed been a great support to me, not only in Pitch and Putt but in everything all down the years. She loves to play her game. She plays in Opens and loves nothing better than taking part in the Scrambles that are played in Meath, Dublin and Kildare.
What does the Royal Meath club mean to you?
A really hard question, Royal Meath to me is like a second home. Any spare time that I get I like to wander down to the course and have a puff on my pipe. It is one of the few places left now where one can really enjoy a smoke! My wife Mary also spends some of her spare time at the club looking after the flower beds and shrubbery.
How involved will you be in Pitch and Putt after your retirement?
I will definitely be taking a break from administration and I hope to play a bit more, along with a couple of friends of mine I hope to play in some of the European and World Seniors competitions.
Billy may have left the official stage but we’re confident that he’ll continue to astutely influence the world of Pitch and Putt from the wings.
(with John Manning)
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