Overnight leader Simon Thornton backed up his opening 66 at the Brown & Brown Irish PGA Championship
with a composed round of 69 on Wednesday at Monkstown Golf Club to remain top of the leaderboard going into Thursday’s final round.
Thornton lies -5, one shot clear of Limerick pro Tim Rice, who made a significant move with a superb 66 after a steady level-par opening round.
Sitting in the chasing pack are Richard O’Donovan on -4, and defending champion Niall Kearney, who carded a strong four-under Wednesday to move to -3. Joining him at three-under are Cormac Sharvin and Seán O’Donoghue, well within striking distance.
The Brown & Brown Irish PGA Championship Trophy
Experienced and proven performer Colm Moriarty is also lurking and is certainly one to watch as the final day unfolds.
After two testing days, the top 50 players have made the cut, and the stage is now set for a thrilling final round.
Conditions at Monkstown have been demanding, with strong breezes lingering in the wake of Monday’s storm. The course has tested every aspect of the players’ games, with subtle doglegs, slick greens running at tournament pace, and no shortage of strategic challenges.
Despite the difficulty, the course has earned high praise from the field. Speaking during Wednesday’s play, Monkstown Golf Club General Manager David O’Sullivan said: “It is an honour to host such a prestigious event. We’re absolutely thrilled with the feedback from the players and proud of how well they’ve been looked after throughout the week. It’s been a tremendous team effort from the membership and staff, and we’re delighted to showcase Monkstown on such a stage.”
“As we head into the final 18 holes tomorrow, anticipation is high. We’re set for a brilliant day of golf, and with so many top Irish PGA professionals in contention, we’re sure to see a worthy champion crowned here at Monkstown Golf Club.”
