Torrential downpours dampen the day

It didn’t take a single shot for Niall Kearney to retain the HBE Risk Management PGA Ulster Championship title on day two at The Hilton Templepatrick.

Torrential overnight rain left the Co Antrim course in an unplayable condition and the organisers had no option but to declare the championship results on the first round.

That meant the Royal Dublin man’s impressive 65 was more than enough to ensure he would keep hold of the prestigious trophy for a second year.

“We looked at a few options but none of them seemed feasible,” explained tournament official Damian Keenan. The greens were in good enough shape but the fairways were soaked.

“We discussed the possibility of using a shotgun start later in the day but that wasn’t an option either because of the waterlogged fairways. Even if there was no more rain today the fairways wouldn’t have dried out enough.

“In the circumstances, the championship has to be decided on the first round and, therefore, Niall Kearney retains the title for a second year.”

Kearney set a course-record seven-under-par 65 in the first round with two eagles and three birdies on his card and not a bogey in sight. He also won the championship pro-am on Tuesday, carding a 68.

A few weeks ago he got over the first qualifying hurdle at the European Tour Qualifying School, and will now go into the Cassidy Golf PGA Irish Championship, at Roganstown among the favourites.