Excellent standard in Captain's Prize

Mullingar Golf Cub notes

Last weekend Mullingar Golf Club hosted the qualifiers of the most sought-after prize in the Men's Branch, viz. Mr. Captain Andrew Maslin's Prize to the men. Great were the golfers, and great in their numbers, who turned out on Sat and Sun last. The leading 64 qualifiers, having ‘made the cut’, carry their scores into the Final round, to be played on Sat next 29th.

This is one of every golf club’s ‘Major’ competitions and Mullingar’s clubhouse was all abuzz in the week’s build-up to the prestigious event. The format is similar to the professional game where golfers play the long championship course, teeing off from the blue tees, with every shot counting. There are no hiding places in this stroke play format of the Captain’s Prize, which has been adopted in Mullingar ever since Steven O’Hara beat James Curran in the last match play final back in 2010. After 14 years, the stroke play format remains as popular, and challenging, as ever.

The weather turned out dry and sunny on Sat, but dry and hot on Sun. The condition of the course moreover was simply stunning, as befitting this premier event.

Mr. Captain had generously procured fabulous prizes, on display beforehand, but he also revealed that a pleasant surprise awaited all who qualified for the Final. The enormous turnout over the 2 days was a tribute to Captain Drew and his contribution to the Branch, and to the Club in general, ever since he joined the Club as a Junior. We thank Mr Captain for all his work and for his generous sponsorship of this Major.

Over the weekend, the Captain was on hand to greet every competitor, listening attentively and patiently to all the hard luck stories, in particular from those unfortunates who did not make the cut.

Even successful players however, who were lucky and/or skilful enough to progress, had stories to share. One golfer was overheard asking why certain things happen to him in this annual competition that never otherwise occur throughout the rest of the season. In true leadership fashion, the Captain simply responded: “Events, dear boy, events”.

There were far too many instances of things going awry, and balls going astray, that would bring a tear to many a sad eye, but best we refrain from all that. Suffice to say however that Rory McIlroy is not alone!

By Sunday evening, it was clear that 75’s had made the cut. Rumour has it that current leaders include Finian Whelehan, whose excellent 68 will see him tee off on Sat in the last three, with Aaron McCarthy on 69 and Conor Lynch on 70. Also on 70 is Niall Conroy, Johnny Geoghegan, Tony Cotter, Gerry Purcell, Scott Hogan, Derek Ruane and Ray Gavin. Great scores indeed, it must be said.

But for fear that anyone might think that the ultimate winner should come from these lofty lads, let us not forget that there are at least two dozen qualifiers, not to mention the rest of the field, who are within a handful of shots of these leaders. So it’s all to play for. The final round commences on Sat at 10:30 with the last threesome hitting off at 13:50. Check the BRS and notice boards for the list of all qualifiers. If you are unavailable to play, be sure to notify the Competition Sec. or the Club. Best of good luck to all contenders.

Presentation of Prizes will take place on Sat evening and will be followed by the usual entertainment. All are welcome for what is sure to be a great night of stories, yarns and the best of craic.

A special mention must be extended to David Perdisatt and his team who put in trojan work to have the course in such pristine condition.