A round and about

Aidan Cooney TV3 sports correspondent and presenter of Ireland AM

Earliest golfing memory?

Watching the cars park all over Portmarnock and the crowds thronging the course for the Irish Open.

First golfing victory?

I've only recently taken up the game to help me wind down after a hard week's training for the Dublin Marathon, so my first victory is completing a course. I've yet to experience the thrill of my first "real" win.

First time to break 90?

See above. I haven't managed to break 90 yet, but that's definitely on my to-do list.

Last bit of golf equipment?

A Callaway seven-iron to practise my tee shots.

Last time you took a golf cart and why?

We were out on the sixth hole (a par three) at Malahide Golf Club recently and we took a cart to film a feature on how my lessons were coming on. I was absolutely thrilled to see the ball soar into the air and onto the edge of the green and more thrilled to have parred the hole.

Last time you muttered an obscenity on the golf course and why?

I drove off the first at Deer Park in Howth and I watched in horror as the ball headed for a car coming up the adjacent road. Luckily, the ball hit a tree and bounced back out to the middle of the fairway.

Which of the Majors would you like to attend and why?

Without a doubt the US Masters in Augusta, Georgia. The atmosphere is unique and the course is a tremendous challenge. According to the official blurb, the 575-yard par-five second is a dogleg left which may be reachable in two

. . . I can only dream!

Ideal golfing fourball: who and where?

It would have to include Barry Power, the very patient pro who gives me lessons. For the best advice Phil Mickelson because he's a lefty - just like me. Also, Wolves manager Mick McCarthy plays off three and he is an excellent motivator and great company.

One last round on earth: where would it be?

That last round may not be too far away if my training for the marathon is anything to go by! It would have to be Adelaide in Australia. It's got the perfect weather, great courses, it's very informal and a great country.

Ralph Lauren or Lyle & Scott?

I've never played with either! I've been told I look trendier in Lyle & Scott.

Is the Titleist ProV1 worth the extra expense?

I need all the help I can get and if it helps me hit the ball farther I've no problem in spending the extra few bob.

Best golf club food. Where?

Heritage Club in Killinarden.

140 yards out from the green, flat, calm. What's in your hand? I would hit with a seven-iron and then say a short prayer.

Favourite club in times of trouble?

As above. I'm permanently attached to my seven-iron. I always seem to do quite well when I use it.

Parkland or links?

Oh parkland every time.

Must-see golfing destination?

I would love to head out to Penang Golf Resort in Malaysia.

Hidden gem?

Gowran Park beside the racecourse or Headfort, Co Meath. The old course at this time of year is magnificent as it is set among the trees.

One Mulligan in life?

As a beginner I have availed of the Mulligan on more than one occasion.