Hoey backs CRY

NORTHERN Ireland golfing star Michael Hoey was in Portstewart last week to lend his support to Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

The professional golfer, who was born in Ballymoney, approached Portstewart man John Lundy, whose son Aaron, a keen golfer and footballer, tragically died of a heart condition some ten years ago.

Aaron and Michael grew up on the golf course together alongside US Open Champion Graeme McDowell.

Since then Michael has enjoyed many successes.

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His biggest was at last year's Estoril Open in Portugal, where he defeated Gonzalo Fernndez-Castao on the third hole of a sudden death playoff, when he won his first European Tour title.

Michael's role as a Patron for CRY became official last Thursday when he joined John and Aaron's childhood friend, Garry McGrotty, who is also a representative for the charity, on the links course in Portstewart.

CRY works to highlight the dangers of cardiac conditions in young people.

They aim to make screening accessible to all young people throughout Northern Ireland.

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As a new patron of the charity, Michael has shown his support by having the CRY logo embroidered on his golf bag.

Michael will help publicise the charity and their important work around the world as he competes on the European tour.

John told The Times that he was delighted to have Michael's support: "I am delighted to have Michael on board as a new CRY Patron.

"He will be a great asset to CRY in Northern Ireland, and I look forward to working with him in the near future."

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Michael added: "At the time, I was shocked and saddened at the sudden death of Aaron.

"I am honoured to become a Patron of CRY and look forward to supporting the CRY screening clinics in Northern Ireland."