Murray ready for Close test

Old campaigners Pat Murray and Gary O’Flaherty can make their experience count in the first round of the AIG- sponsored Irish Amateur Close at Seapoint today.

While Tullamore’s Stuart Grehan topped the qualifiers on one over par 145 on a countback from Knock’s Colin Fairweather, Limerick star Murray and Cork stalwart O’Flaherty cruised through amongst the 64 qualifiers at a course where staying out the deep rough is imperative.

“It’s tough, but it’s a seriously good golf course,” said 42-year old former Close champion Murray, who added a 75 to his opening 72 to qualify with ease on 147.