O'Keeffe shakes off sore back to stay in contention as Rafferty races into West lead

Gentle breeze makes scoring conditions favourable in Rosses Point and talented field take advantage

Steady as she goes: Peter O' Keeffe (Douglas) was content with his opening round of one-over 72 at the West of Ireland Amateur Championship. Photo: Golffile/Fran Caffrey

No damage done.

That was the view of Irish Close and Irish Amateur Open champion Peter O'Keeffe after opening with a one-over 72 in the Connolly's Audi sponsored West of Ireland Amateur Championship at County Sligo.