Thornton and McGrane share the spoils at Connemara Pro-Am
Simon Thornton
Former European Tour winners Damien McGrane and Simon Thornton turned the Connemara Pro-Am into a two-man battle at the weekend.
The duo couldn't be separated after 36 holes in testing conditions at the Co Galway links, finishing the tournament locked together on five-under-par.
McGrane started the second round five shots off the lead following an opening-round 74 but stormed through the field with a best of the week 65 to set the clubhouse target.
Damien McGrane. Image: Julian Herbert/Getty Images
Thornton, who was in second place after a two-under-par 70, followed up with a 69 to share top spot with McGrane.
The leading pair finished six shots ahead of a group of six players on one over par.
Mullingar professional, James Quinlivan, who led the way at the close of play on day one after opening with a three under par 69, signed for a second round 76 to finish tied third with five others.
GUI National Academy professional, Kenny Fahey, partnered amateurs Peter Higgins, Frank Higgins and John McDonoughue to victory in the team event with a two-day score of 176 points.
Connemara Pro-Am, Connemara Golf Club (Par 72)
139 D McGrane (Carlow GC) 74 65, S Thornton (Tulfarris Golf Resort) 70/69
145 S Barry (Royal Tara GC) 78 67, B McElhinney (Evolve Golf Coaching) 72 73, D Ryan (Cahir Park GC) 75 70, C Moriarty (Glasson Hotel & GC) 74 71, J Quinlivan (Mullingar GC) 69 76, R Kilpatrick (Banbridge GC) 71 74.
