Sports Innerview with Ann Liguori

Edward Doyle, Director of Golf at Druids Glen Golf Resort, shares insight into two standout luxury golf experiences in Southeast Ireland — the established parkland elegance of Druids Glen and the highly anticipated new links course at Curracloe Links. Doyle discusses what distinguishes the Neville Hotel Group's approach to hospitality, from championship-level conditioning and refined accommodations to a service culture centered on creating memorable guest experiences. He also previews Curracloe Links, scheduled to open in spring 2027, detailing the vision for an authentic seaside links that complements Druids Glen's renowned inland test. With its debut aligning with the momentum leading into the 2027 Ryder Cup, Curracloe is poised to add another compelling destination to Ireland's evolving golf landscape while offering travelers the opportunity to experience two contrasting yet complementary styles of Irish golf within one luxury portfolio.

Ann visits with Fraser Thomson, Director of Golf at Adare Manor, to discuss preparations for the 2027 Ryder Cup and the growing excitement throughout Ireland as the country readies to host one of golf's most celebrated events. Thomson shares insight into the meticulous planning behind staging the matches, the championship conditioning of the Tom Fazio–designed course, and what makes Adare Manor such a distinctive and memorable venue in Southwest Ireland.

Marie Collins of Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg discusses how the team at this spectacular coastal property is preparing to host the Irish Open in September. Collins outlines enhancements to the links layout designed to challenge the world's best players while preserving the course's natural character, and she describes how the Village of Doonbeg is embracing the opportunity — with local businesses, accommodations, and residents preparing to welcome an international audience for this highly anticipated championship.

Ann visits two of Southwest Ireland's premier links courses while previewing two significant amateur championships on the global golf calendar. At the Arnold Palmer–designed Tralee Golf Links, Ann speaks with Director of Golf David Power about the beauty, challenge, and legacy of the course, along with Tralee's role in hosting the 2026 Palmer Cup. Ann also turns her attention to historic Lahinch Golf Club, where she catches up with Brendan Keogh of SWING Golf to discuss the rich heritage of the Old Course and the excitement surrounding the 2026 Walker Cup, one of amateur golf's most prestigious team competitions.

Ann visits two of Southwest Ireland's premier links courses while previewing two significant amateur championships on the global golf calendar. At the Arnold Palmer–designed Tralee Golf Links, Ann speaks with Director of Golf David Power about the beauty, challenge, and legacy of the course, along with Tralee's role in hosting the 2026 Palmer Cup. Ann also turns her attention to historic Lahinch Golf Club, where she catches up with Brendan Keogh of SWING Golf to discuss the rich heritage of the Old Course and the excitement surrounding the 2026 Walker Cup, one of amateur golf's most prestigious team competitions.

Ireland's golf landscape is buzzing with momentum — from the Palmer Cup and Walker Cup to the Irish Open and an exciting wave of course openings leading into the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor. In this edition of Sports Innerview, Ann visits with leading voices shaping Ireland's vibrant golf scene, offering previews of upcoming championships, evolving destinations, and new experiences awaiting traveling golfers. Featured guests include Brendon Keogh of SWING Southwest Ireland Golf alongside David Power, Head PGA Professional at Tralee Golf Club; Nicky Conlan, Managing Partner of Brittas Bay; Fraser Thomson, Director of Golf at Adare Manor; Marie Collins of Trump International Ireland Doonbeg; and Edward Doyle, Director of Golf at Druids Glen and Curracloe Links. Together, they share insight into tournament excitement, course development, and why Ireland continues to captivate golfers seeking championship links, rich tradition, and unforgettable hospitality.

Ann talks with 9-time PGA Tour Champions winner Stephen Ames, about what he likes most about playing on the 'over 50' circuit, on his unusual geographical journey in golf, growing up on the island of Trinidad & Tobago, his opinions on Tiger playing on the PGA Tour Champions, about all the money on the PGA Tour, and much more. 

Ann visits with Nicky Conlan, Managing Director of Brittas Bay, who, with his father, acquired the renowned The European Club, originally owned and designed by Pat Ruddy and located about an hour south of Dublin. Conlan shares updates on the property's transformation into Brittas Bay under the direction of golf architect Kyle Phillips. He discusses his family's roots in golf, the vision for a pay-and-play destination, plans to honor Ruddy's legacy while making the course enjoyable for golfers of all abilities, and future development that may include on-site cottages.

Aaron Stewart, Senior Vice President of Sports & Event Marketing for Hilton Grand Vacations and Executive Director of the HGV Tournament of Champions, taking place at Lake Nona Co Club, the week of Jan. 26, talks about the exclusive, limited field of the LPGA Tour's season-opening event, the depth of talent on the LPGA, the unique celebrity field that distinguishes the tournament, and the impact of Hilton Grand Vacations aligning its brand with women's sports. He also shares personal reflections on his late father, golf legend Payne Stewart, and the enduring life and leadership lessons he learned from his Dad.

Ann showcases the wide range of recreational experiences at the historic Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa in New Hampshire's White Mountains, highlighting golf, outdoor pursuits, and the resort's classic elegance. She is joined by Kalen Whitney, Golf Superintendent, and Lloyd Van Horn, General Manager, who offer insight into the Resort's rich history and many guest experiences.The episode also features Ann sharing a memorable conversation with golf legend Bernhard Langer, reflecting on his career, longevity in the game, and perspective on championship golf.

Ann plays highlights from the historic 'Golfing Ties between the U.S. and Ireland' reception/panel that took place Nov. 20, 2025 at the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, Ed Walsh's Residence in Dublin, Ireland. The program features comments by Ireland Minister of Sport, Media & Culture, Patrick O'Donovan; Ann's conversations with golf greats Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley; and segments from additional guests: Max Hamilton, DP World Tour; Fraser Thomson, Adare Manor; and Fiona Togher, GM, Carne Golf Club.

Ann plays highlights from the historic 'Golfing Ties between the U.S. and Ireland' reception/panel that took place Nov. 20, 2025 at the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, Ed Walsh's Residence in Dublin, Ireland. The program features comments by Ireland Minister of Sport, Media & Culture, Patrick O'Donovan; Ann's conversations with golf greats Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley; and segments from additional guests: Max Hamilton, DP World Tour; Fraser Thomson, Adare Manor; and Fiona Togher, GM, Carne Golf Club.

Bernhard Langer, the most successful player on the PGA Tour Champions with 47 victories and 12 Major titles, talks about the unique format of the Skechers World Champion's Cup, the key to his longevity and drive through the decades he's been playing, and the strong competition amongst his peers on the Champions Tour.

Ann talks with Michael Wolf, co-author, 'The Golf Courses of Seth Raynor,' as they discuss the genius of Seth Raynor, his extensive work in a relatively short period of time, Raynor template holes, his background working with Charles Blair MacDonald, and much more.

Ann talks with Michael Wolf, co-author, 'The Golf Courses of Seth Raynor,' as they discuss the genius of Seth Raynor, his extensive work in a relatively short period of time, Raynor template holes, his background working with Charles Blair MacDonald, and much more.

Ann visits with Kalen Whitney, Superintendent/Dir. of Golf, at Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa, in Whitefield, New Hampshire, about the historic resort, the 9 hole course designed by Ralph Barton, who worked with renown golf course architect Seth Raynor, and the many sports activities available to families, year-round.

Ann interviews Patrick O'Donovan, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media of Ireland, whom she sat down with on the Saturday afternoon of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. They discuss his team's trip to this Ryder Cup, what they learned for their preparations for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, in County Limerick, where the Minister is from, and much more. Ann replays her conversation with Bill Byrne of Aer Lingus on the impact of golf tourism on the Emerald Isle and air travel between the U.S. and Ireland. And Ann shares her guest appearance on BBC News while the exciting singles matches of the Ryder Cup were being played.

Ann interviews Patrick O'Donovan, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media of Ireland, on the Saturday afternoon of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, as they discuss his team's trip to this Ryder Cup, his observations, and their preparations for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, in County Limerick, where the Minister is from.

Ann guests on Kelly Elbin's 'Musings on Golf' show as they recap the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and Europe's 15-13 win over the United States.

Ann broadcasts from the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black and discusses top storylines of both the U.S. Team and the European Team with Greg Allen, Golf Correspondent, RTE Radio, Ireland. Ann talks about U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Keegan Bradley's success story with his college golf coach, Frank Darby. Frank was Coach of the St. Johns University golf team and recruited Keegan to play there. 

Ann previews the Ryder Cup, the home course advantage that Bethpage Black gives Ryder Cup USA; downplays what many are expecting to be a 'hostile' crowd in NY; the leadership qualities of both Captains; and Scottie Scheffler, world # 1 needing a strong Ryder Cup performance after going 0-2-2 at Marco Simone in 2023. 

Ann visits with Don Rea, President of the PGA of America, about the upcoming 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, the PGA itself, and his own story about becoming a PGA member in his early thirties.

Ann talks with veteran sports writer Hank Gola, author of 'Ryder Cup Rivals: The Fiercest Battles for Golf's Holy Grail,' and Ann visits with Don Rea, President, PGA of America, on the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, the PGA itself, and Don's own story of becoming a PGA member in his early thirties. 

Ann talks about various 'Ryder Cups' with veteran sportswriter Hank Gola, author of 'Ryder Cup Rivals: the Fiercest Battles for Golf's Holy Grail.'

Ann talks with Bill Byrne, Sr. VP, Global Sales, Aer Lingus, about Ireland's growth in golf tourism, industry and culinary in the past 20 years and what Aer Lingus Airlines has to offer  to and from the U.S. to Ireland. Ann talks with Hank Gola, author of 'Ryder Cup Rivals, the Fierest Battle for Golf's Holy Grail,' as we reminesce about the various Ryder Cups we've covered. 

Ann talks with Steve Flink, Hall of Fame tennis journalist, about the 'Big Three' Rivalry in men's tennis, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, and the Chris Evert - Martina Navratilova on-court rivalry and off-court, long-time friendship.

Ann shares a conversation she had with sisters Phung, Amelie and Alexa, extraordinary teenagers from Forest Hills, N.Y., who excel on and off the golf course; and with Steve Flink, Hall of Fame tennis journalist, about the 'Big Three' Rivalry in men's tennis, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, and the Chris Evert - Martina Navratilova on-court rivalry and off-court, long-time friendship.

Ann visits with Randy Walker, Publisher, New Chapter Media, writer/editor, WorldTennisMag.com, on the 2025 U.S. Open Tennis Championship, and the USTA dedicating this Tennis Championship to Althea Gibson, and Randy's re-release of Althea's autobiography, 'Althea Gibson: I Always Wanted to be Somebody.' Ann shares an interview she did with New Jersey's own Megha Ganne, who won the 2025 U.S. Women's Amateur title at Bandon Dunes. 

Ann shares her conversation with Megha Ganne, winner of the U.S. Women's Amateur, how she got through the grueling week of competition, how she balances golf, studies, and her social life at Stanford, her wish to turn pro after she graduates from Stanford and more.

Ann visits with David Cone, 5-time World Series Champion and Baseball Analyst, ESPN and YES Network, on his passion for golf, what he brings from baseball to golf, who he'd pick to play in his favorite foursome, and top baseball memory.

Ann talks with Jason Birnbaum, Dir. of Instruction at Manhattan Woods in Nyack, N.Y., about his PGA Tour star pupil, Chris Gotterup. Ann visits with David Cone, 5-time World Series winner, Baseball TV Analyst for ESPN and YES Network, about his passion for golf and the similarities between a pitching motion and the golf swing. And Ann and Golf Insider Dan Rapaport, Skratch, opine about the Fed Ex Cup playoff format and U.S. Ryder Cup team picks. 

Ann shares her conversations with former NFL Quarterback, Super Bowl Champ, Joe Theismann, and with Alex Lifeson,  Hall of Fame guitarist for the band, RUSH, about what they've been working on and their passion for golf.

Ann interviews the legendary Alex Lifeson, Hall of Fame guitarist for RUSH, passionate golfer, about the iconic band RUSH, his new work with 'Envy of None,' his favorite golf foursome with music buddies, what he brings from music to golf, pale ale, and much more.

Ann talks with former Super Bowl winning QB Joe Theisman about playing in his 35th American Century Celebrity Tournament, the similarities between football and golf, and who to watch in the upcoming NFL season.

Ann talks about JJ Spaun, winner of the U.S. Open, the Travelers Championship, the KPMG Women's PGA Champ Minjee Lee; and winning a second Gracie Award; visits with course architect Gil Hanse on his refurbishing both the Lower Course and Upper Course at Baltusrol; talks with Keith Stewart, PGA Member and Founder, Read the Line, about the top stories in golf; and with Aaron Straub, VP, Operations, Concert Golf Partners.

Ann broadcasts from the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club in Pa. Ann talks with Paul Alexander, Host/Anchor, KDKA Radio and 93.7 The Fan, about the difficulty of Oakmont, what makes it so special, and stories about the beloved Arnold Palmer. Ann visits with Hall of Famer, Ernie Els, who won his first Major title at the 1994 U.S. Open at Oakmont, and shares his memories of that win and the brutal test the course presents, in addition to his opinions on a variety of issues in golf.

Ann visits with Aaron Straub, Sr. VP of Operations, Concert Golf Partners about the company's strategy, their new acquisition of New Seabury n Cape Cod, what sets them apart from other owners and operators and the current popularity of golf.

Ann talks with Hall of Famer Ernie Els, about his first Major victory, the 1994 U.S. Open title at Oakmont Country Club; his thoughts on the USGA not going to Monday for an 18 hole play-off, which was changed years ago; the dominance of Scottie Scheffler on the PGA Tour; and how Ernie, now 55, stays sharp on the PGA Tour Champions.

Ann talks with Don Rea, Pres., PGA of America; Dr. Jeff Poplarski, the Performance & Recovery Dir. of 7 USGA Championships each summer; and Nicholas Callaway, co-editor and co-publisher of 'The Unconquerable Game: Ely Callaway on the Game of Golf, Business, and Life.'

Ann visits with Nicholas Callaway, co-editor and co-publisher of 'The Unconquerable Game: Ely Callaway on the Game of Golf, Business, and Life,' about Nicholas' Dad, Ely, the Founder of Callaway Golf, how the Big Bertha driver revolutionized the golf biz, and business wisdom from Ely, who ran several companies before founding Callaway Golf in his 60's.  

Ann visits with Links Magazine Editor George Peper about the LINKS Top 100 golf courses in the world, as voted on by course atchitects; Nathan Grube, Tournament Dir., Travelers Championship; and Hal Sutton, winner of 14 PGA Tour titles, the 1983 PGA Championship and 2 time Player Championship winner, about a variety of topics including if he feels if money is ruining pro men's golf. 

Ann visits with Links Magazine Editor George Peper about the LINKS Top 100 golf courses in the world, as voted on by course atchitects; Nathan Grube, Tournament Dir., Travelers Championship; and Hal Sutton, winner of 14 PGA Tour titles, the 1983 PGA Championship and 2 time Player Championship winner, about a variety of topics including if he feels if money is ruining pro men's golf. 

Ann and Gary Player discuss Rory McIlroy's rollercoaster Masters win and Player, 1 of the now 6 male players in the career grand slam club, talks about the impact of Rory's win.  Ann interviews Evin Priest, co-author with Tiger's former caddie Steve Williams, their new book, 'Together We Roared.' 

Ann asks golf legend Gary Player, who has played in over 50 Masters, to share his insight on the mental strength, nerves control, and resilience it took Rory McIlroy to finally win his first Masters title, and capture the Career Grand Slam. 

Ann talks with Evin Priest, co-author with Steve Williams, Tiger's former caddie, 'Together We Roared: Alongside Tiger for his Epic Twelve-Year, Thirteen-Majors Run' about their most successful partnership, why they didn't speak to each for  over a decade, how they reconciled, and great anecdotes from their friendship and 13 Major Titles

Joe Highsmith, Masters rookie, shares his joy and strategy about playing in his first Masters. He talks about planning to play a practice round with his good friend, Freddie Couples, who will be playing in his 40th Masters, and how Augusta National sets up for his game as a left hander.

36-year-old Rafael Campos of Puerto Rico shares his excitement on playing in his first Masters, how he has approached his preparation for Augusta National, how winning the Bermuda Championship changed his life, and playing for a bigger purpose.

Ann visits with Alison Metcalfe of Tourism Ireland and they discuss Ireland and Northern Ireland being a popular golf destination for men, women, and families. And Lynn McCool, General Manager, Donegal Golf Club in western Ireland, talks about the beauty of the course and all that the County of Donegal has to offer.

Ann visits with Bobby Barnes, interim General Manager at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, home of the Valspar Championship, as they talk about the Copperhead Course, in great shape year-round, the Valspar PGA Tour event there every year, and Bobby's journey in the golf industry.

Ann visits with long-time actor and passionate golfer, Alex Hyde White, known for a wide variety of roles throughout his career, including his polo playing role in 'Pretty Woman;' and Ann interviews Jordan Peace of Concert Golf Partners, on CGP's rapid growth of owning and growing private golf properties. 

Lynn McCool, GM, Donegal Golf Club, talks about the special links course in NorthWest Ireland, originally designed by Eddie Hackett, being refurbished by 2014 Ryder Cup Captain Paul McGinley. Lynn talks about why Donegal Golf Club is so special, other courses to play in the area, its proximity to Royal Portrush, host of the 2025 Open Championship, and her career path in the golf industry.