Posted 02 August 2011
UCD scholarship student crowned South of Ireland Amateur Open Champion
21-year-old UCD scholarship student, Stephen Walsh playing out of the Baltinglass club has been crowned the 110th South of Ireland Amateur Open Champion. Walsh, who is self-taught, apart from lessons from his grandfather Des Tobin, came from two down after nine to beat Andrew Hogan of Newlands by 3 and 2 in the final.
Speaking to the Irish Times, Walsh said: “I’ve had a few good displays this year without ever quite finishing it off. This is a dream come true for me and my family, especially my grandfather, Des Tobin, who is responsible for my membership at Baltinglass.”
His grandfather organised membership at Baltinglass for him when he was 14 years old.
The South of Ireland Amateur Open Championship was first played at Lahinch Golf Club in 1895. It is played in July each year, and is limited to the 192 entrants who have the lowest handicap.
Previous winners include: Darren Clarke (1990), Paul McGinley (1991), and Graham McDowell (2000). Padraig Harrington finished runner up on two occasions.
Having just completed his Degree in Sports and Exercise Management at University College Dublin, Stephen Walsh now prepares for the World University Games in China (12-23 August) where he will play on the Irish team.
(Photographs courtesy of Irish Examiner)
(Produced by UCD University Relations)
