Getting on the top rung of ladder an improbable dream

THE failure of any Irish player to win a card at the European Tour School suggests that the well that has provided this country with a steady stream of outstanding players for many years is finally running dry.

Niall Kearney, a former South of Ireland champion, came closest at the school but after a poor final day at Catalunya, had to be satisfied with a place on the Challenge Tour. While several outstanding players have come through the secondary circuit to make the grade on the highest stage of all — current US PGA champion and Race to Dubai order of merit Martin Kaymer is the classic example while our own Peter Lawrie also earned his spurs through this route — it can be a hard grind for the vast majority.

No free rooms in 5 star hotels, no first-class or business travel, no courtesy cars. Make your own way there and fend for yourself is the norm.