Ireland’s case for five of the 10 Walker Cup places was strengthend in Slovakia when West Waterford’s Gary Hurley produced a performance on demand by finishing second in the International European Amateur Championship for the second year running.

Gary Hurley's second successive 65 for a one shot lead over Lytham Trophy winner Marcus Kinhult of Sweden in the International European Amateur Championship sets up a fascinating battle to capture the heart of Walker Cup skipper Nigel Edwards over the next two weeks.

Cormac Sharvin was the biggest Irish mover but it’s fellow Walker Cup hopefuls Jack Hume and Gary Hurley who lead the Irish challenge for the International European Amateur Championship in steamy Slovakia.

Jack Hume is a modest lad despite his major achievements and he quietly reminded everyone that he's a Walker Cup prospect worth serious consideration when he carded an immaculate, seven under par 65 in the opening round of the International European Amateur Championship in Slovakia.

Englishman Ashley Chesters became the first player to claim back-to-back International European Amateur Championship titles as West Waterford's Gary Hurley tied for second ver the breezy Duke’s Course in St Andrews.

European Amateur Championship — West Waterford's Gary Hurley will re-start his bid of the weather-delayed European Amateur Championship with a one shot lead at the Duke's Course in St Andrews.