Unearthing talent proving hard task

The exploits of two of their own, Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley, in lifting the World Cup should provide a buoyant mood when the Leinster Branch of the Golfing Union of Ireland holds its a.g.m. at Westmanstown tomorrow night.

Indeed, Albert Lee, the honorary secretary of the provincial body, proved to be quite prophetic in expressing "great pride" in the deeds of Harrington and McGinley during the 1997 season in his annual report, issued prior to their great achievement.

However, at a time when the number of clubs in the province is at an all-time high (there are now 137 clubs catering for 51,000 golfers), Lee expressed some disappointment with clubs in response to the Branch's quest to unearth young talent. Only 40 names were submitted by clubs, a "quite worrying" development for the future claimed coaching convenor Joe McNamara.

"The Branch continued its programme of coaching during the year under the provincial coach, David Kinsella. The boys' and youths' interprovincial panels received tuition, and during the summer months coaching sessions were held for boys selected from those nominated from their clubs. The response from the clubs to the Branch's request seeking information about boys showing potential was most disappointing," said Lee, adding that the Branch is "most anxious" to provide tuition to those who have achieved a certain standard.

Tomorrow night's "elections" will be uncontested and Paddy Murphy (Newlands), Albert Lee (Mullingar) and Barry Doyle (Carlow) will be returned unopposed as chairman, honorary secretary and honorary treasurer respectively.