Patrick Bradshaw has resigned as tournament director of the PGA Irish Region, so as to take up a position within the golf industry on February 1st. A replacement will be announced within the next few weeks.
During a seven-year period with the PGA, the nephew of Harry Bradshaw became one of the country's most respected Rules of Golf officials. Indeed he has refereed in two Ryder Cups, at the Belfry in 1993 and at Valderrama last September. He has also refereed at the British Open.
An important new event has been added to the European Seniors Tour schedule for this year. The £150,000 Golden Charter PGA Scottish Seniors Open Championship, is to be played over the championship (East) course at the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel from September 3rd-6th.
By way of emphasising the quality of the line-up, the organisers boast 10 former Ryder Cup players in Tommy Horton, Malcolm Gregson, Antonio Garrido, Maurice Bembridge, Jose-Maria Canizares, Brian Waites, Guy Hunt, Brian Huggett, Neil Coles - who won the Senior Service Tournament at Dalmahoy in 1962 - and Scotland's Norman Wood.
But 56-year-old Horton is acknowledged as the player to beat in European seniors' competition this year. Three times a winner of the money list, the Jersey professional picked up a record £158,427 last season and his seven-year haul of senior winnings - just under £500,000 - is more than twice his earnings during 35 years on the regular tour.
The field of around 100 will line up on Thursday, September 3rd, following a qualifying round on the Monday and a pro-am on the Wednesday.
Sandy Jones, executive director of the PGA, said: "This will make for an exciting September in seniors golf."
Paul Rayfus, the former Irish Amateur international, is to be honoured with the captaincy of the Co Meath GC at Trim, during this, their centenary year. There could hardly be a more appropriate choice, given his status as the club's most successful player.
Rayfus, who captured the West of Ireland Championship in 1986 and the East of Ireland title the following year, will drive in on March 29th. He will be joined by the incoming lady captain, Monica Woolfson.
Co Meath GC was re-formed at its present location 30 years ago and was extended to 18 holes in 1989.
