A Touch of Class

A Touch of Class is an Irish golf podcast that loves a wander. Hosted by Will Griffith, the show dives into the stories, journeys, and characters that make Irish golf what it is. No scripts, just honest conversations, detours worth taking, and the people who shape the game.

Each episode features players, coaches, caddies, amateurs, pros, and the personalities who give Irish golf its character. From Irish amateur golf and the Irish Amateur Championship to life on tour, coaching, player development, and the game behind the game, A Touch of Class brings you closer to the people and moments that matter.

The podcast also shines a light on Ireland’s great inter‑club traditions — Senior Cup, Barton Shield, Jimmy Bruen, Pierce Purcell, and the All‑Ireland club champions who have shaped the competitive landscape of Irish golf.

If you love Irish golf, great stories, and the feeling of going for a wander and seeing where you end up, this is your podcast.

All Episodes

A Touch of Class

Mark Cadden – West of Ireland Champion, Irish International & Rising Star | A Touch of Class Podcast

April 22, 2026 • Will Griffith

0:00 | 1:36:30

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of A Touch of Class, Will Griffith sits down with Meath’s own Mark Cadden — 2026 West of Ireland Champion, Irish international, and one of the most exciting young players emerging in Irish golf.

Mark reflects on his journey from growing up in Oldcastle to developing his game at Roganstown under coach Geoff Loughrey, where he transformed from a 21‑handicap junior to a + player in just a few years. He talks about his early success, including winning the 2023 Ulster Boys Championship and collecting four Junior Elite Tour victories across 2024 and 2025.

Mark also shares his experiences representing Ireland at U16 and U18 level, travelling to Argentina for international duty, and competing at TPC Sawgrass in the Junior Players — a rare honour for any young golfer.

The episode dives deep into his incredible run at Rosses Point, where he battled brutal conditions and defeated some of Ireland’s best, including Caolan Rafferty, Alex Kerins, and Colm Campbell in a dramatic final to win the 2026 West of Ireland Championship.

Topics Covered:

Growing up in Oldcastle and developing at Roganstown
Working with Geoff Loughrey and rapid handicap progression
Winning the 2023 Ulster Boys Championship
Four Junior Elite Tour victories in 2024 & 2025
Representing Ireland at U16 & U18 level
Competing at TPC Sawgrass in the Junior Players
The full story of his 2026 West of Ireland win
Looking ahead to Walker Cup ambitions

If you enjoy stories of rising Irish talent, elite junior golf, and the mindset behind championship performances, this episode is one you’ll want to hear.