Thornton wins The Northern Ireland Masters

Simon Thornton won The Northern Ireland Masters at Clandeboye Golf Club by two shots ending a 13-year wait since his last victory on the PGA EuroPro Tour.

Thornton, who is based at Tulfarris Hotel Golf Resort, began the final round one shy of the lead and put pay to the rest of the field to secure victory with a final round of four-under-par for a week of 60, 72, and 67.

In truth, Thornton’s efforts were deserving of a fitting victory following a sensational bogey-free opening round of 60 on day one. After bouncing back from a double bogey on the opening hold on day two, Thornton bounced back to finish +1, leaving him in a strong position for the final day.

He was bogey-free in a tricky final day where a thick fog kept play postponed until the until 2pm. The shotgun start meant it was all go at once and Thornton’s experience at the top end of golf came into use with birdies at 6, 13, 15, and 17.

Thornton said: “When you shoot 60 on the first day everybody expects you to win but really the second day was a great round of golf, one over par and I am still thinking is it still true (the 60) to stay in the mix.

“Then it came and I have to say the weather suited me. Hitting those little punch shots in. I’m delighted.”

“Everybody in this country (Ireland) loves golf. We all love golf. So many golf courses and so much passion for the game. So to have so many come and watch and to watch Jonathan (Caldwell) is just fantastic.”

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