Mourne Golf Club News

07/08/23

By The Fairway Scribbler

Martin Greene’s President’s Day was the highlight of the week at Mourne Golf Club where over 100 competitors took to both courses at Newcastle before John McDonald emerged victorious from a packed leaderboard.

Greene has been a wonderful servant to Mourne Golf Club for decades, and last Sunday was an occasion to mark his position as one of the club’s figureheads. Never mind his position as President, Greene has travelled the length and breadth of the country supporting teams, like he does every season.

Last Sunday he didn’t have nearly so far to travel as his main duties included welcoming all the players onto the first tee at the Championship Links.

Conditions were excellent for golf, and it was McDonald who did just enough to muscle his way to the top of the leaderboard. The eight-handicapper signed for a winning score of 38 points, one ahead of a chasing trio. PJ Maguire was best of those on 37 points and secured second, while Paul Gallagher also had 37 to finish third with Eugene Valentine (37) fourth.

“I just want to thank you all for playing so badly to allow me the chance to win today,” joked McDonald upon accepting the O’Boyle perpetual trophy and first prize. “I would just like to thank the President and everyone who played today.”

James Maginn continued his excellent form of late to win the best gross prize with this level par 71. Noel Murray won the veteran’s prize played on the Annesley Links, while Barry Gilliland picked up the visitor’s prize.

At the dinner and presentation afterwards, there was a special moment when Greene’s good friend and entertainer Gene Fitzpatrick rolled back the years and took to the floor. Fitzpatrick’s wit and timing was as sharp as ever as he had his audience in fits of laughter.

“It is great to see so many of you here tonight for my President’s Day, I am extremely grateful,” said Greene at the presentation. “There are so many people to thank, who help myself and this club, and who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Thank you all for your help and support.”

(Pics courtesy of Danny Hillen)

-ENDS

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