McCormick takes lead

England’s James McCormick was the surprise leader after the opening stroke play round of the Radisson Blu-sponsored West of Ireland Amateur Open Championship at a damp and gloomy Rosses Point yesterday.

The Styal, Cheshire clubman was the only player to break par — with a one-under 70 — from 138 starters at the County Sligo course.

There was a three-way tie for second place with the host club’s Barry Anderson, Harry Diamond (Belvoir Park) — close friend of Rory McIlroy — and Richard O’Donovan (Lucan) all shooting 71.