Four top amateurs get Irish Open invite

Robbie Cannon, Gavin Moynihan, Gary Hurley and Dermot McElroy will tee it up at Fota Island

Dermot McElroy. Photograph: Russell Pritchard/Inpho/Presseye
Dermot McElroy. Photograph: Russell Pritchard/Inpho/Presseye

Two former Irish Amateur Open champions are included in the GUI's four man selection for the Irish Open at Fota Island on June 19th. Robbie Cannon (Balbriggan) and Gavin Moynihan (The Island) are joined by Gary Hurley (West Waterford) and Dermot McElroy (Ballymena).

The four amateurs are included in a field alongside Major champions and Irish favourites Rory McIlroy, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell and Darren Clarke and European Ryder Cup captain, Paul McGinley

The 2009 winner Shane Lowry, who won in enthralling circumstances as an amateur at Baltray, is also included in the field.

Antonia Beggs, Championship Director said "The amateur game in Ireland has always been vibrant, thanks mainly to the commitment and endeavours of the Golfing Union of Ireland.

READ SOME MORE

“We are delighted to welcome Robbie, Gavin, Gary and Dermot to join a world class field of professionals at Fota Island Resort. The experience they get from playing in the Irish Open will be invaluable as they progress in the game of golf.”

Albert Lee, Honorary Secretary of the GUI said: "Playing in the Irish Open is an important step in the development of these players and we acknowledge the support of the European Tour in allowing us nominate four amateurs to compete in what will be a fantastic display of golf at Fota Island."