Now that work has begun on the Mel Flanagan-designed, nine-hole extension extension to Abbeyleix golf club, the committee have come up with a novel idea to raise monies towards the cost of the project. In order to defray some of the £600,000 costs, the club is running a four-person classic on the weekend of August 14th and 15th. Nothing very unusual in that.

What is unusual about this Classic is that of the 72 teams competing, 45 of them will figure in the prizes - surely a record for any golfing event. And why so many? Well, due to the generosity of clubs from all over the country, all the prizes will be green fees for four for various clubs.

The club have been overwhelmed by the generosity of clubs, not only their neighbours, who are giving their wholehearted support, but clubs who are household names in Irish golf have also come to the aid of Abbeyleix. Druids Glen, K Club, Ballybunion, Galway Bay, Lahinch, The Island, Carlow, Rathsallagh, Mount Wolseley, Mount Juliet are among those already on the list.

The winning team, in the order they finish, can choose the club they would like to visit. The cost of the Classic is £100 per team, which includes a meal. The time sheet is available at 0502 - 31086. A great two days golf is guaranteed.