JP McManus in cancer battle

JP McManus has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to a report in the Limerick Leader.

Reporter Eugene Phelan reports that the 58-year-old Limerick man, who is a close friend of Padraig Harrington and Tiger Woods, is due to fly home from the United States on Friday after spending a number of weeks in hospital.

JP McManus and Padraig Harrington at the 2005 JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am

Woods and Harrington have committed to playing in next year's JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am at Adare Manor from July 5-6. The event has raised approximatley €55.85m for charity since 1990.

According to the Limerick Leader:

"He is as enthusiastic as ever, and it is all still systems go. This is just a small set back and JP is raring to go," was how one of those involved in the organisation of the event, which will see Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington and a host of other top golfers come to Limerick next year.

Mr McManus, who is reputed to be worth more than €1 billion, made headlines in the Limerick Leader earlier this month over his plans to build a 5,500 square metre lake (1.25 acres) at his home.