Rookie Phelan gets sponsorship boost

Waterford rookie Kevin Phelan has landed a sponsorship deal with the same company that first backed Rory McIlroy — Dublin-based investment boutique, FL Partners.

The 23-year-old, who also impressed at last year’s US Open before winning two points out of three for Great Britain & Ireland at the Walker Cup, will wear the company logo on his left sleeve.

“I am delighted FL Partners has chosen to support me,” said Phelan, who finished 24th at the Alfred Dunhill Championship — his first tournament as a card-carrying Tour professional — and is in action at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship this week, on a sponsor’s invitation.

“I am determined to make my first season on the European Tour a success and hope to reward FL Partners’ faith in me with as many strong performances as possible.”

Phelan turned pro in September and graduated from the European Tour Q-School in December.

“It’s a big step, but one I am looking forward to taking,” said Phelan.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my amateur career and feel ISM offer the best options moving forward, considering what they have done for so many young golfers.”

Managed by Chubby Chandler at ISM, Phelan received a glowing endorsement from FL Partners’ co-founder, Neill Hughes.

“The last few years have been incredibly successful for Irish golf and we believe Kevin is capable of reaching similarly lofty heights in due course,” said Hughes.