Double top for Dwyer and Dunlea
09/07/2014
** L-R, Graeme Dunlea, Slieve Russell GM Tony Walker & John Dwyer
John Dwyer (Asbourne GC) and Graeme Dunlea (Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort) shared the spoils at the Slieve Russell Masters Pro-Am.
In swirling winds, Dwyer carded a second round 70 to finish on 139 (-5) while Dunlea compiled a fine 68 to end the tournament on the same mark.
The pair made the most of the opportunity handed to them by overnight leader, Michael McDermott (Pure Golf Leopardstown), who followed up his opening round 66 with a three-over 75 to slip out of contention.
“I probably played as well yesterday (Monday) but I holed more putts today, that was the difference,” said Dunlea who opened his bid with a one-under 71.
The 29-year-old, starting from the 10th, was out in three under 33 with birdies at 13, 15, 17 and 18, offset by a dropped shot at the 14th. He dropped two further shots at the second and third but a run of three birdies at the sixth, seventh and eighth saw him home in one under 35.
“When I birdied the sixth I thought I was probably behind so the birdie at seven was pretty huge,” he said.
Dwyer, a former winner of the event in 2003, carded four birdies and two bogeys in a relatively composed two under 70. His one big mistake came at the par four third when he lost a ball off the tee but still managed to make a bogey five.
“I'm only back after a holiday and I was rusty on day one but I gave myself plenty of birdie opportunities today (Tuesday),” said the 40-year-old.
"I'm only really playing half a schedule these days as I have a couple of young children so it's always nice to win a big event like this with a decent field.”
Reigning Order of Merit champion, John Kelly (St Margaret's) finished third on four under par.
The team event was won in some style by David Ruddy and playing partners who finished on 193 after rounds of 98/95.
