Intrepid four aim to follow in Harrington’s footsteps

AT precisely the same time as Pádraig Harrington was banking well in excess of $2 million from his globetrotting activities, four young Irishmen were using him as the ideal role model as they set out on their own professional careers

Limerick’s Tim Rice, Corkman Pádraig Dooley, Gavin McNeill from Waterford and Donegal’s Ciaran McMonagle decided to take the plunge into the paid ranks when failing to acquire their European Tour cards during the autumn months.

All four had enjoyed relatively distinguished amateur careers but believed the time had arrived when they should play for pay.