Such is the level of amateur golf these days that not even squally showers and westerly whipping over 25 mph could stop 42 players from firing sub-par scores in the opening round of the Pierse Motors-sponsored 122nd South of Ireland Amateur Open at Lahinch.

Max Kennedy may not make the Walker Cup this year but he will certainly have the selectors’ attention over the next few months after going six extra holes to clinch a thrilling play-off victory in the Ulster Men’s Amateur Stroke Play Open Championship at Clandeboye.

History beckons at Headfort, but who will be the man (or boy) to make it?

Cork golfer John Hickey clinched his second win in a row in the Flogas Irish Scratch Series at The K Club.