David Mulholland was delighted to clinch a special victory at the Scottish Senior Men’s Open Championship at Bruntsfield Links.
Mulholland, a member at Castlerock Golf Club, is a regular visitor to Scotland with family living in Glasgow and he was crowned champion after posting rounds of 71, 73 and 70 for a one-over total and a one shot victory.
His closing 70 was enough to hold off nearest challengers, Murcar’s Bryan Innes, one of seven Scots inside the top ten, and England’s John Kemp.
After a few near misses in Scotland, Mulholland was chuffed to finally add his name to a national championship trophy and earn what is something of a home victory given his family ties.
“It hasn’t quite sunk in yet, it’s brilliant,” said the Irish senior international. “I’ve played a lot of championships and until now I’d never won a national, but the standard is so good and it’s very difficult to get it done.
“I’ve had a lot of seconds – at the British and Irish – and thirds as well.
“It’s just fantastic to get over the line in a national championship and the Scottish is special.
“One of my sons lives in Glasgow and another studied at Aberdeen so we’re over here a lot and it’s very special.”
Mulholland held his nerve in a stiff and challenging breeze. Having started the day four shots behind 36-hole leader Gordon Taylor from Glenearn, Mullholland was able to seize victory as one of only two players in the field to break par in the final round.
“The course was also spectacular and tested every club in the bag.
“You can’t ask much more than that. The bunkers are well-placed but they are fair and give you a chance.
“It’s such a thrill to win this and, if possible, I look forward to coming back to defend the title next year.”
Leave a comment