Irish hopefuls begin quest to reach European Tour

Fourteen Irish golfers begin the second stage of the European Tour qualifying school at four venues throughout Spain today.

They include a number of experienced players, most notably David Higgins of Waterville and Yorkshire-born Simon Thornton, who have figured regularly on Tour over the years.

At the other end of the scale comes Alan Dunbar, the Rathmore youngster who will face a considerable dilemma should he come through this week’s exercise and finally qualify for his Tour card at the final school, running from November 24 to 29.