Philip fires in what could be the score of the season

The playing conditions were ideal and that was reflected in the scoring, not least on Philip’s card.

Playing off 14, he was the winner with a fantastic score of 46 points. That converts to a nett 59 - a score that is achieved only two or three times in a full season.

Philip jokes about his golfing ability but, when he is on form, he is one of the best players in the club.

Young Matthew Mallon (6) was runner-up with 45 points. Matthew made no mistakes in a three under par round.

Jonathan Shannon (6) won the low section (0-12) with 42 points. Jonathan had to shoot level par to get that score.

John J Lennon (10), last year’s Captain’s Prize winner, was second in the low section with 41 points.

John Crothers (14) won the middle section (13-17) with 41 points. John has played a lot over the winter months and it is paying dividends.

Robert Haire (17) was runner-up in this section with 40 points. Robert is determined to get his handicap reduced this season.

If he can maintain this form, that will surely happen.

Kieran McGreevey (24) won the high section (18+) with 44 points.

He was almost caught by Philip Strong (22) who finished very strongly for 43 points.

Philip took second prize in this section. Gerry McBrien also had 43 points but unfortunately missed out on countback.

As for the best gross prize, it was that man Rory Leonard (scr) once again. Rory went round in three under par gross 66 and that gave him a winning score of 39 points.

Colin Smylie (19) won the best senior prize with 40 points. Colin will be a key player in the higher handicap team competitions this season.

The big headline from this competition was Philip McCourt shooting a nett 59. Will that score be bettered this year? It will take a good man to do it.