Strong Ulster contingent eager to steal McNamara’s title

LIMERICK teenager Cian McNamara faces strong opposition in his bid to retain his South of Ireland Championship at Lahinch over the next five days.

McNamara, on holiday from college in the United States, became the youngest champion in over 100 years when, at the age of 18, he defeated Greg Bowden of Hermitage at the third tie hole in last year’s final.

Although British Amateur champion Brian McElhinney and Rory McIlroy, are absentees this week, the quality of the field is still of the highest calibre.