Irish Club Professionals' Tournament secures three year deal with Arklow

Left-right - Peter Gaw,  Down Syndrome Centre; Darren Ryan, Captain Arklow Golf Club; Michael McCumiskey, Secretary PGA of Ireland; Chris Davitt, President of Arklow Golf Club

The PGA of Ireland has reached an agreement with Arklow Golf Club to stage the Irish Club Professionals' Tournament, in conjunction with charitable partner The Down Syndrome Centre, for the next three years.

The two-day event, scheduled for Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 June, will attract approximately 100 professionals to the classic links course in South Wicklow. A pro-am on Tuesday June 3 will be staged involving 40 teams of four.

PGA Ireland region secretary Michael McCumiskey said: “Arklow has a vibrant and enthusiastic membership. The PGA is looking forward to working with them this year and beyond.”

Arklow has played host to the PGA of Ireland in recent times, staging the PGA Southern Champion in the early 2000s. Leslie Walker claimed the title in 2001, Brendan McGovern won in 2002 and 2004 with John Murray triumphant in 2003.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the charity to be involved with and we look forward to working with the PGA and professionals around the country on this tournament,” said Peter Gaw, Down Syndrome Centre.

“It is a very exciting time for The Down Syndrome Centre as we hope to open our doors in early April, creating a family focused service of help, support and advice for the child and family throughout their lifetime.

The current Club Professional champion is Foyle Golf Centre's Brian McElhinney, who carded rounds of 68 and 72 to beat Royal Dublin's Patrick Devine by a shot at Dundalk GC.

Arklow captain Darren Ryan added: “We are delighted to welcome the PGA back to Arklow GC. The members at the club have great memories of hosting the PGA Southern Championship and I know they will get behind this tournament. The charitable link also provides Arklow GC with a fantastic opportunity to play a part in supporting the efforts of Peter and the team at Down Syndrome Centre.”