McDermott makes biggest move of day in rain-delayed Seniors Championship

US-BASED Irishman, Joe McDermott, made one of the biggest moves of the day, yesterday in the rain-delayed De Vere PGA Seniors Championship at Carden Park, Cheshire, where he fired a two-under 70 for a 145 aggregate.

While only half the 132-man field finished their second round because of flooded bunkers and fairways, McDermott improved five shots on Thursday’s opening round, and looks likely to make the cut. McDermott, originally from County Clare, settled in the Chicago area in the early 60’s. At 61, he had to return to the European Seniors qualifying school last year, surprising many with a splendid sixth place.

As darkness descended over the course, the clubhouse leader was Japan’s Seiji Ebihara, twice a winner this year. He added a five-under 67 for an aggregate of 136.

American George Burns hit a fine 66. The 53-year-old Florida-based player ended his round in some style - a 30-foot putt for a birdie on the short 16th, was followed by an eagle on the par-five last, thanks to a 7-wood second shot to five feet. David Jones from Bangor fell from the top of the leaderboard, adding 10 shots to his opening 67 for a 144 aggregate.