Local golfer performs brilliantly in the UK  

A NORTHSIDE junior golfer narrowly missed out on victory in the national final of the American Golf Junior Championship at Gainsborough Golf Club in the UK.

A year after his brother, Kyle, won the Boys’ Handicap category at the championship, Keene Honer, who plays at Roganstown Golf Club, made it through to the final following an impressive display at the regional qualifier at Swords Golf Club. 

At the final he lined up against qualifiers from all over the UK and Ireland in the Gross score category where the best golfers compete with no help from handicaps. 

In tough conditions, particularly over the back 9, Keene played some exceptional golf, keeping eventual winner Nathan Newton from Chester in his sights all the way round. 

Both boys thrived under the pressure and after the scorecards were tallied, both came out with rounds of 3 over par on what is widely recognised as one of the region’s toughest courses. 

To separate the two leaders further analysis of the cards was needed, before Nathan was declared winner by virtue of a better last nine holes.  

Daniel Gathercole, Director of Marketing and Communications at American Golf, said: “The golf, sportsmanship and camaraderie on show really has been first class. Some of the best junior golfers in the UK and Ireland have turned out to play in the championship this year so the competition has been intense."

Gainsborough Golf Club is home to manufacturer PING and Mr Gathercole said they were superb hosts once again.

“From all the juniors and from American Golf, we can’t thank them enough for their hospitality.