Noel O'Leary, alongside Lady Captain Anna-Retha Rafferty, stands as the Men’s Club Captain at the esteemed Jumeirah Golf Estates (JGE). This journey began with a deep-rooted passion for golf, cultivated from his early days in Dublin, Ireland. While Noel engaged in various sports such as Gaelic football, soccer, boxing, and athletics, it was golf that truly captivated his heart.
In the 1980s, the Irish Open at Portmarnock Golf Club provided a pivotal moment for Noel as a teenager. Witnessing legends like Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer, Ian Woosnam, and José María Olazábal in action left an indelible mark, solidifying his love for the game.
After a stint in Switzerland, where he and his wife, Hannah, savored Alpine life, they opted for a change, moving to Dubai in 2012. Noel describes JGE as more than just a golf course; it’s a vibrant community with two world-class courses—Earth and Fire—alongside exceptional amenities, restaurants, and even padel tennis.
Upon becoming a member, Noel eventually took on the prestigious role of Men’s Club Captain. This position, he notes, is not sought but bestowed by the club management and peers. Serving alongside Lady Captain Anna-Retha Rafferty has been incredibly fulfilling, especially in fostering connections with staff and witnessing the joy of award recipients.
Highlights during his tenure include the Spring Member’s Party, where he addressed an audience of 700-800, and overcoming significant challenges such as personal health issues and a major storm that disrupted the club’s facilities.
Looking forward, Noel aims to leave a lasting legacy at JGE, focusing on creating enduring events like the Captain’s Trophy and the Captains vs. Management Trophy. He envisions a bright future for golf in Dubai, attributing JGE’s role in nurturing local talent and promoting the sport.
From his beginnings in Dublin to his current role at JGE, Noel’s journey underscores the profound impact of sport in building meaningful connections, as he continues to nurture the legacy of golf both at JGE and across Dubai.
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