RISING Irish star Max Kennedy, emerged victorious in the Northern Ireland Boys Qualifier event of the 2019 Faldo Series Europe calendar. The win secures his place at Al Ain Equestrian Shooting &Golf Club in Abu Dhabi for the Europe Grand Final in November for the second year running.
The event saw a talented international field of junior boys head to the esteemed Galgorm Castle Golf Club where Kennedy overcame a strong field to win by six shots over three rounds.
Kennedy, featuring at under-18 level, started the third and final round tied at the top of the leaderboard with Morgan Tournemire, who shot a superb
four-under 68 in his second round.
Tournemire however, blew his chances of lifting the trophy, with a final round score of two-over to finish in second place.
Kennedy, who made eleven birdies across the three rounds, remained in total control and
shot an impressive four-under 68
to finish six shots clear of Tournemire.
Englishman Sam Linskey had a creditable championship, finishing on a total of three-over par to wind up in third position overall.
"I drove the ball very well in the final round which enabled me to have a number of birdie chances,
of which I made three," said Kennedy.
"It was also nice to make an eagle on the third hole to get me to three-under par through three holes. My chipping and putting were both very consistent throughout the event, which is always a huge help. I played in
last year's Grand Final at Al Ain
and I'm even more excited to be going back this year to try and play as well as possible and hopefully win."
David McAleenon wrapped up the under-21 title after impressive rounds of 70, 77, 64. Jude Kane
won the under-16 division to also secure his place at Al Ain. Both McAleenon and Kane will be making their Grand Final debuts in November.
"Galgorm Castle Golf Club is one of Ireland's finest parkland layouts and it's a pleasure to host the Northern Ireland qualifier here," said Matthew Faldo, the Faldo Series director. "Many congratulations to all winners."
