As the year comes to an end it is an opportunity to ask: How was 2019 for Irish golf clubs? Positive vibes continue, boosted by the €2.34m (up from €1.96m two years ago) recently awarded to golf clubs under the Sports Capital Programme.

COMETH the roar, cometh the Tiger.

Padraig Harrington and Luke Donald are well in contention for victory after the first round of play in the JP McManus Pro Am in Adare, Limerick.

Jim Furyk, dogged by questions about his wrist and game all season, fired a two-under-par 69 to win the Western Open at 14-under-par 270.