Even the professionals can’t do it blindfolded

The European Tour invested €50,000 on grandstands at the par three 17th at Carton House aimed at creating a unique atmosphere similar to that famously prevailing at the 17th at the Phoenix Open on the US circuit for many years.

Excellent crowds on pro-am day turned up at Carton yesterday and the hundreds who made their way to the 17th were regally entertained by the professionals with several, including the Irish pair, Shane Lowry and Pádraig Harrington, readily agreeing to play chip shots from close to the green – blindfolded!

Although they went close on a few occasions, none found the bottom of the cup but the gallery were thrilled by this extra treat. For locals, there was the added satisfaction of learning that Lowry, who lives on the Carton estate, played superbly throughout the pro-am.

Even though the pros didn’t keep a personal score, the Offalyman was believed to be six under par and looks a good bet to capture the Irish Open for the second time.