Rosses Point report 2018

2018 was the 65th consecutive year that the Golf Society of Chartered Accountants Ireland held its annual outing at Rosses Point. In excellent golfing weather the 65th renewal was thoroughly enjoyed by over 70 Chartered Accountants. The society is indebted to the County Sligo Golf Club and Chartered Accountants Ireland for their ongoing support in staging the weekend. The dates for 2019 are Friday 24th and Saturday 25th May. Entries for next year, which can never be too early to Ger Byrne by email gearoid.obroin@nuigalway.ie. 

Lorimer Shield turmoil for Leinster and Connacht as Ulster march on

For this year let’s start at the very top with the Ulster Society’s latest successful defence of the Lorimer Shield in the Golden Jubilee year of the provincial team competition. Bill Miscampbell retired as Ulster supremo on a fitting high after 33 years in charge with a seventh win on the trot. As in his first year of playing at Rosses Point, Bill made the winning team. Pictured from left to right Colin McEvoy, Captain Bernadette, one of Ulster’s new ‘young blood’ warriors Des Duffy and playing Captain Bill. Whoever the unlucky sod is to be the next Ulster Captain, he has some pretty large boots to fill.

Fittingly the 'Lady Captain' was in charge of the dress code and Hilary's excellent fashion choices proved a colourful addition to the Lorimer this year.

Sadly, some of the other provincial Lorimer Captain’s struggled, for example it appears Leinster’s ageing ‘Lady Captain’ is no longer able to carry his clubs two days in a row, and now requires a ‘powered aid’ to help him and his equipment around, whilst Connacht’s big man from the West was left downcast, rueing yet another losing performance, and perhaps considering his position.

Individual winner of the Pratt Cup


Patrick McKenna was crowned the overall individual winner of the outing and is presented with the Pratt Cup below by Captain Bernadette on his debut visit to Rosses Point. It is no mean feat to win at the first time of asking as the championship course at Rosses Point presents a formidable challenge for newcomers. Many players spend many years learning how to play their best game on the links. Some of the hardy regulars are still practising after 30+ years! (Editors note: Long list of non winners deleted to save embarrassment). 

By the way do you notice Patrick's striking resemblance to Irish World Golf Championship winner Shane Lowry? 

 

Presidential seal of approval

The newly elected President of Chartered Accountants Ireland Feargal McCormick and displayed considerable golfing prowess throughout the weekend, addressed the members at the Friday evening dinner and launched the new ‘Companions’ event over the Bomore 9. The President also maintained the long standing tradition on Friday night, by selecting several excellent choices of wine for dinner. Here's a look at Feargal's accomplished golf swing from the first tee. 

The Johnny Lillis Trophy

For the first time a competition was played on Saturday in a new ‘companions’ category over the Bomore 9 for a beautiful bronze sculpture of the iconic Rosses Lady on the Shore, which is named in honour of Johnny Lillis, Past Captain of the society. It is hoped this competition’s popularity will increase each year and enable the society to reach more golfers across CAI, including those starting the game, occasional players and very experienced golfers who do not wish to play the full 18. Spread the word please! The first winner was our local “Bomore expert” Bryan Kilfeather who admitted to weekly practice sessions over the Bomore 9 since last year in preparation for the competition. Bryan, there may need to be a handicap adjustment pending by the committee if the practising continues.  

Margaret Downes Trophy

One of the notable points forward from 2018 was the increase in the number of lady golfers participating. Ten players but the same winner as Sinead McHugh won the Margaret Downes Trophy for the fifth time with Louise Coffey a plus handicap, current Irish amateur international golfer in second place. We trust all the new ladies enjoyed the event enough to encourage more participation in years to come.

Companionship - the essence of Rosses Point

The ultimate purpose of the Society is cultivating engagement amongst members and maintaining friendships old and new. You may decide for yourself from the photos below whether this was achieved at Rosses in 2018. Thanks to the many people who contributed to the success of the weekend, including Captain Bernadette who handed over the reins (corks) to new Captain Aisling at the Captain’s dinner.