Practise makes perfect for Quinlivan

Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club

James Quinlivan grabbed victory at the Icon Windows & E.E.W sponsored PGA Pro-am at Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club.

The Mullingar GC professional posted a four under par 68 at the Co Wexford venue, finishing one shot ahead of Simon Thornton and Mark O'Sullivan (Piltown Driving Range)

It was a welcome return to winning form for Quinlivan who admitted work commitments and the March arrival of baby daughter Lucy had impacted on his ability to play and practice.

“I got a lesson with Eddie Doyle (The Heritage) recently which certainly helped. I hit the ball well at the recent pro-ams in Belvoir Park and Dunfanaghy but didn't hole anything,” said James.

“Things kind of clicked. I think I hit 17 greens in regulation and gave myself some good chances for birdie which I managed to take.”

James birdied four of the last eight holes in a flying finish to the back nine, having trimmed the par five third and eighth to four blows each. 

His bogeys were recorded at the par five first and par four 10th, both courtesy of three-putts.

Back-to-back birdie threes at the 11th and 12th holes were followed by four pars before he pencilled in a two at the short 17th and had his third birdie four of the day on the last, rolling in a putt from four feet.

Eddie Doyle (Natural Golf School) combined excellently with his three amateur partners – Briege St Ledger, Brendan Mullans and Pat Horick – to win the team title, edging out Richard Creamer (Arklow) on break of tie.

Icon Windows & E.E.W sponsored PGA Pro-am at Bunclody, Bunclody Golf & Country Club (Par 72)

68 (-4) – J Quinlivan (Mullingar).

69 – S Thornton, M O'Sullivan (Pilltown DR).

70 – D McGrane, J Dillon (Headfort), M McDermott (Pure Golf Leopardstown), E Brady (Clontarf).

71 – D Higgins (Waterville), C Carvill (Belvoir Pk), N Kearney, D Mooney (Nevada Bobs Belfast)
Team: 91 pts – E Doyle (Natural Golf School).