Past champions and future stars line up in 123rd South of Ireland at 'special' Lahinch

Reigning champion Patrick Adler from the US in not defending his title but there will still be a quality field in action at the Clare course. 

Peter Sheehan is set to play in his 40th South of Ireland Amateur Open Championship . Pic: ©INPHO/Tom Maher

Peter Sheehan tees it up in his 40th Pierse Motor Group South of Ireland Amateur Open Championship today but he's not the only former champion enamoured of the annual matchplay classic at Lahinch.

As 58-year-old Sheehan goes off with fellow veterans Karl Bornemann and Sean Barry at 2:30pm, two former champions and a former runner-up will be on the back nine at the west Clare links reliving their past glories and enjoying the unique atmosphere of what is arguably Irish golf's most popular provincial championship.