Sam Murphy, Stephen Grant and Cathal MacCanna have all progressed to next week’s Alps Tour Qualifying Final.
Ex Shamrock Rovers, Burnley and Sunderland footballer Grant has been trying to chase his golfing dream since retiring from professional football in 2004 and he came safely through the first stage in Miglianico on level-par after rounds of 67 and 73 gave him a share of eighth place.
Grant didn’t have it all his own way on day two, he found himself three-over through ten holes before a welcome birdie on the 15th steadied things and he could afford a dropped shot on the 17th.
At Le Fonti, Portumna amateur Sam Murphy is set to enter the pro ranks next season and he boosted his chances of gaining Alps Tour status with rounds of 68 and 71 for a three-under total to claim second place.
Cathal MacCanna who was in the final group at the North of Ireland last in September is also safely through at Conero Golf Club after rounds of 69 and 73 gave him a level-par total and a share of 7th place.
