Paul Dunne hits first round 69 at European Amateurs

Faithlegg's Robin Dawson and Jack Hume of Naas head an impressive Irish challenge in the European Individual Amateur Championship at the Penati Golf Club in Slovakia, both signing for seven-under-par 65s after Wednesday's opening round.

The Irish duo are in a tie for fifth place, one shot behind the triumvirate of Sweden’s Marcus Kinhult, Iceland’s Haraldur Magnus and Scott Gregory of England. Dawson managed eight birdies and just a single bogey while Hume’s round was blemish free with five birdies and an eagle.

West Waterford and NUIM student Gary Hurley signed for a four-under 68, while Greystones' Paul Dunne, who recently produced such a marvellous performance in the British Open at St Andrews, and who will play in the US Amateur Championships on a special invitation, recorded five birdies and two bogeys in a first round of 69.

Gavin Moynihan of The Island managed a two-under 70, while The Castle’s Alex Gleeson was is a shot further back.

Ballymena’s Dermot McElroy carded a level-par 72, but there was disappointment for Ireland’s highest ranked amateur Cormac Sharvin, who slipped to a 74. He was four over at the turn but fought back well with three birdies and just a single bogey on the back nine. Sharvin will also compete at the US Amateur, along with Hurley and Dunne.