PICTURES: Great turnout for Paul Loonam Golf Classic in Esker Hills

There was a fantastic turn out of over 100 golfers for the Paul Loonam Golf Classic in Esker Hills recently.

The Loonam family hosted the memorial day on Friday, August 7 to celebrate the life of Paul Loonam.

Along with the golf, Supermac's were on hand to provide burgers for everyone in attendance. There was also a putting competition on the day as well as face painting and games for the kids.

Speaking after the event, organiser Paul McEvoy said: "I worked hard on this event and was hoping it would be a success and with over 100 golfers, families with some travelling from England, and friends coming from far and wide, the hard work certainly paid off.”

He continued: "To me with this turn out this just tells us all how much Paul Loonam was loved, we will hold this day every year to remember Paul, not just for the great family man he was or for the endless work he did helping out others, but because we all miss him so much and this event will keep Paul close to our hearts.”

The winner on the day was Darren Rosney who scored 46 Points with a handicap of 14. Barry Kelly was runner-up with 45 points with a handicap of 28 and third place in the classic went to Brandon Tobella who finished with 43 points off a 10 handicap.

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The organiser commented: “We only had one Lady golfer, and this was Roisin McEvoy, but Roisin gave the men a good run for their money finishing in the top 20 with 28 points.”

Paul McEvoy also paid tribute to all those who contributed to the success of the classic. “We had food, drinks and music in Gallaghers bar, The Pull Inn in Pullough in the evening. This was an amazing evening and a big thank you to Joseph, Joe and Josie from Gallaghers.”

He added: It was not our intention to raise any money, but with peoples generosity we had over €1800 left which we are donating to Pullough community centre for their new playground."

Paul also gave a special thanks to Caroline from Esker Hills Golf club, Brendan Lowery for coming out to the day, Matt Wallace from the US PGA tour for sending over a best wishes video message, to everyone who donated vouchers, Paul Bell the Brewery Tap, Tony Raggazoli, Adrian Cullen – Premier foods, Pullough community shop for some sponsorship, to Kieran from Supermac’s and family and friends who helped on the day.

A word of thanks was also extended to Amanda McEvoy, Shauna Mooney, Carmel, Paul (Jun), Kevin, Sinead, Ashling, and Roisin Loonam, Brendan McEvoy and Fergie Quinn, Lisa Loonam and Liam, Spuddy, Tomasz, Emma. Dylan, Min and all the golfers and everyone who sponsored a hole.

Photos courtesy of Ger Rogers Photography.