Brian aims to make the cut

VERY few here at Troon have heard a great deal about Brian McElhinney but, in truth, he has arrived here with very worthy credentials.

He gained his exemption in the first place by winning last year’s European Amateur Championship. After that, he played a very significant part in Ireland’s victory in the Home International Championship in Ballybunion and after a solid 2004 season, he confirmed his high rating in the Irish Close Championship when he beat his North-West clubmate Michael McGeady in the final at Murvagh, Co Donegal. So he has arrived at Troon with his confidence on a high and his sights set on making the cut.

“That would be a great bonus,” says the powerfully built 21-year-old from Dunfanaghy, who is avidly looking forward to the greatest week of his life.