Finland’s Tapio Pulkkanen claimed a slender lead in the opening round of the Italian Open after setting a target which proved too hot to handle.

Open champion Shane Lowry has switched his focus from parental responsibilities to trying to reclaim top spot in the Race to Dubai at the Italian Open.

BARRIE TRAINOR pressed the pedal over the weekend to take the chequered flag in the final lap of the Lexus Race to Mount Juliet in association with Ping and Bord Fáilte.