Killarney, Ireland - The Towson men's and women's golf teams spent their first full day in Ireland playing 18 holes at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club on March 16.

The teams split into foursomes to play best ball on Killeen course, a championship course that hosted the 2010 and 2011 Irish Opens.

Starting around noon and finishing around 5:30 p.m. Ireland time, the Tigers thoroughly enjoyed their first go at an Irish golf course.

"Well, it's been a really long day," said junior golfer Kati Day. "But I think today has been a lot of fun, just because we're all so excited. I know we're all really tired, but it was a blast just to play in a different country with your teammates and your friends."

Killarney Golf and Fishing Club maintains two courses: Killeen and Mahony's Point. Opened in 1939, the club also hosted the 1991 and 1992 Irish Opens and has awarded lifetime membership to golf greats Padraig Harrington, Nick Faldo, Payne Stewart, Rory Mcllroy and Graeme McDowell.

At 6593 meters/7252 yards in length and a par 72, Killeen course is a challenging afternoon of golf with water hazards on nearly every hole. The Killarney lakes and the mountains provide a scenic and yet intimidating backdrop.

"I'd never been to Ireland before," noted Day. "I'd been told it's absolutely stunning, and honestly, it's 10 times more beautiful than I expected. Every single shot [on the golf course], it's just beautiful when you turn around. It's just very picturesque.

Tomorrow, Towson takes a quick break on Monday to march in the Killarney St. Patrick's Day parade. The Tigers will have free time to check out the sights around the town as well.

"Tomorrow is St. Paddy's Day, so tomorrow will be fun," enthused Day. "We're participating in the Killarney parade. And I'm really excited about going to play the other courses [later this week]. Getting the opportunity to play in another country is really specal, so I'm excited about that."