Thornton tames Carne Links

01/09/2020

Freewheeling Simon Thornton (Tulfarris Golf Resort) eased to an eight-shot success at the 36-hole Vermilion Energy Carne Pro-Am.

The Newcastle based professional posted rounds of 66 (-6) and 68 (-4) to streak away from the field, finishing on 10 under par.

Colm Moriarty (Glasson Golf Club), David Higgins (Waterville Golf Links), and Richard Kilpatrick (Banbridge GC) finished tied for second on two-under-par.

“It's a good score. The weather was perfect and we probably got the best of the draw,” said Simon.

Tournament organisers introduced the Kilmore nine to tournament play for the first time on Sunday with the lay-out getting rave reviews.

“It's spectacular, some of the holes are fantastic and I'm sure it will mature and develop over the next couple of years,” added Simon.

“What a piece of ground they have. You look around and can picture other golf holes meandering through the dunes.”

Brendan Walton (Portmarnock Links) and amateur partners Sean Gaughran, Michael Gaughran, and James Maguire claimed the team prize with a two-round score of 185 (96/89).

Simon continued; “I have to be honest, I haven't been practicing. I have hit a few balls once or twice a week just to keep swinging the golf club.

“And do you know what, when I tee it up at the minute I am really enjoying it. My mind is much freer and I'm just standing up and hitting the shot in hand.

“This year, because of Covid and stuff there is not so much riding on events in terms of Order of Merit and that sort of thing. It's all about enjoying the golf and getting back out and playing again.”

CLICK HERE to a full set of results from the Vermillion Energy Carne Pro-Am.