Kelly and Hurley lead PGA-GUI challenge after solid first rounds

Old reliables John Kelly and Gary Hurley took up where they left off at Fota Island last year to lead the PGA-GUI challenge in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at windswept Royal County Down.

Twelve months ago, St Margaret’s professional Kelly was the only Irish Region member of the PGA to make the cut, eventually finishing tied 58th to pick up €5,600 as Hurley ended up 73rd.

This time it was Kelly opened up with a three over 74 that left him tied for 67th with the likes of Waterford Castle’s Kevin Phelan, Ryder Cup star Victor Dubuisson and two time Irish Amateur Open champion Gavin Moynihan from The Island.