Changes set to boost South of Ireland’s status

The Munster Branch of the Golfing Union of Ireland confirmed last night that of a number of significant changes have been made in the hope resurrecting the image and status of the South of Ireland Championship.

The country’s oldest provincial amateur championship has fallen on lean times over the past decade, mainly because of fixture congestion that frequently led to the Irish team for the Home Internationals being chosen before the event had taken place.

Accordingly, the majority of the top players saw little reason for making the trek to West Clare at an advanced and extremely busy stage of the season.

The Lahinch club has hosted the “South” since 1895 and has kept up with changing times ever.

A statement from the Lahinch club said:

“This year’s South will commence midweek on Wednesday July 22, and will be the last major opportunity for our leading amateur golfers to impress selectors before the Home Internationals which will be held at Royal Portrush between 12/14 August.

“The Championship Committee has agreed changes to this year’s format from the traditional match play to 36 holes stroke play qualifier over the first two days with the leading 64 competitors qualifying for match play commencing on Friday morning 24 July.”