The race for the 2026 Irish Speed Golf Open title has been thrown wide open with confirmation that defending champions Robin Smith of New Zealand and Bev Fentiman of England will both miss this year’s event through injury.
Their absence means new champions will be crowned when competitors from across Europe and Australia gather at Castlebar Golf Club this Saturday for one of the most innovative events in world golf.
While the reigning champions will be absent, the international quality of the field remains exceptionally strong. Australian competitor Riley Davie will make the long journey from Australia to compete, while leading British speedgolfers Will Robson and James Hardy will travel from the United Kingdom. Two Finnish competitors will also make the trip to Mayo, while Katty Leppard of England and Germany’s Britta Ushkamp will strengthen the women’s field as both seek to claim the Irish Open title. The international line-up underlines the growing appeal of the event.
Particular attention will focus on James Hardy, the current British Speed Golf Champion, who arrives in Castlebar as one of the pre-tournament favourites. Hardy captured the British title with a series of impressive performances and has established himself among the leading competitors on the UK speedgolf circuit. He will be looking to add the Irish Open crown to his growing list of achievements. With no defending champions in the field, organisers believe this year’s competition could be one of the most unpredictable and exciting editions yet.
Rob Hogan, event organiser and two-time World Speed Golf Champion, said:
“While we’re disappointed that Robin and Bev are unable to defend their titles, injuries are unfortunately part of sport. We wish them both a full recovery and look forward to welcoming them back in the future. Their absence does create a fascinating championship, however, because it leaves the door open for a new generation of players to make their mark.”
“The quality of the international field travelling to Castlebar is extremely encouraging. To have competitors coming from Australia, England and Finland to compete in Mayo demonstrates just how far the reputation of the Irish Speed Golf Open has grown. James Hardy arrives as British Champion, while Riley Davie and the other international competitors will all believe they have a genuine chance of lifting the title.”
The Irish Speed Golf Open combines golf and endurance running in a unique test of athleticism, strategy and skill. Players complete the course carrying a reduced number of clubs while racing against the clock using the event’s innovative time-adjusted scoring system.
The event is expected to attract competitors, supporters and spectators from across Ireland and overseas, further cementing Castlebar Golf Club’s position as a key venue on the international speedgolf calendar.
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