There was a superb turnout for the third annual John Duggan Memorial Cup, held in the picturesque surrounds of Portlaoise Golf Club.
107 players in all turned out, the first time the competition has broken the 100-player mark.
“Myself and Mark Keenan are absolutely delighted, it makes all the effort and work worth while,” said co-organiser, Kevin Sheehan.
“We would like to thank Sean Tobin for doing a great job as captain for this year, and also welcome Stan Walsh in as the new captain for next year.”
John Duggan sadly passed away in April 2021 and the first competition held in his memory took place in 2022.
John was widely known in teaching and sporting circles and was heavily involved in the school’s GAA teams over the years as well as with the Portlaoise GAA club, whom he played and coached with.
He was a keen golfer and in 2017 helped a team of Portlaoise CBS and Portlaoise College staff to win the inaugural All Ireland Teachers Golf Championship.
His legacy lives on with the John Duggan Memorial Cup, who has a new winner for 2024.
Ronan Dowling had a super round of gold, played at Singles Stableford format, crowning himself the 2024 champion.
Ronan was presented with the Cup, as well as a new golf bag, as he takes over from 2023 winner, Seamie Cahill.
Ross Holmes finished in second place, earning himself some choice golf gear as well as Liverpool tickets.
The rest of the results from the field include:
- 3rd – Owen McStay
- 4th – Domo Connell
- Gross – Carl grant
- Vet prize – Liam Bergin
- Front 9 – Noel Greene
- Back 9 – Ben O’Reilly
- Longest drive – Ross Doyle
- Nearest the pin – Greg O’Sullivan
- Non GUI – John Mulligan
“Thanks to Portlaoise Golf club; they really supported the event with help on the day,” organisers said.
“Thanks also to the new people playing the event – we had players from 17 clubs around Ireland represented – which we appreciate greatly.
“The plan is to keep the costing down and play the Heritage Golf Club next year.
“We hope everyone enjoyed the day and kept John in your thoughts.
“Many thanks as always to the sponsors of some fantastic prizes: The Maldron Hotel Portlaoise; Downey’s Centra; Kevin Hogan; Liam Marum; Paddy Power Portlaoise; Sean Brown’s Off Licence; Mark O’Boyle; Kevin Holland @ Druids Golf; Mark Keenan Plumbing; and Adrian Kelly, Captain, Portlaoise Golf Club.”
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