Muskerry primed for challenge

If Muskerry do not take the AIG Barton Shield back to Cork from the national finals at Carton House this week it will not be for lack of experience.

The Munster champions, chasing their first title in the prestigious foursomes event since 1953, begin their bid for a long awaited end to their drought with a semi-final against Connacht pennant holders Athenry as the Golfing Union of Ireland’s AIG Cups and Shields finals get underway this morning on the O’Meara Course at the Maynooth hotel and golf resort.

Warrenpoint, who won the Barton in 2011 at Castelrock, and Leinster champions Royal Dublin will contest the other semi-final.