REPORT ON THE 2009 IRISH LINKS CHAMPIONSHIP

The Fifth Annual IRISH LINKS Championship, was held in Ireland from Thursday, May 14th through Sunday, May 17th, 2009.

The United States Team of Dave Lockhart and Dave Weretka hailing from Chicago won the Low Net by 12 points on 203 in the better ball stableford competition over the Irish Team of Frank O’Donoghue and Jamie McGarr. In 3rd place was Bob Denning and John Garrison from San Jose, Costa Rica with an accumulative score of 217.

The team of Landy Blank and Mark Fairman took home the magnificent Waterford Crystal Trophies for the Low Gross Team Competition. Their team score was +17.
After suffering a damaging defeat last year, the United States were determined to bring home the ‘Ryder Cup’ and after leading in points on day one, USA never let up and were victorious! The United States Captain Jim Peters graciously accepted the Trophy on behalf of his team members from the European Captain Jim O’Malley.

The tournament was held over 3 days with competitors from 5 countries competing over the links of the Cashen Course at Ballybunion, the Old Course at Lahinch and Doonbeg. The Host hotel was the luxurious Doonbeg Resort. Fine food, good wine, entertainment and great 'craic' was enjoyed by all.

Dates for 2010 have been confirmed for May 20th – 23rd and will be held over two days play at Old Head Golf Links and Cork (Little Island) Golf Club. . The field is limited to 28 2 man-teams. Maximum handicap for men is 28 and for ladies 36. Entries must be received no later than November 30, 2009 to qualify. For more information, please call 1.800.824.6538 or register at www.irishlinkschampionship.com/a>