Ireland team captain Paul Kelly said he was “very proud of everyone involved” after his side claimed the silver medal at the European Nations’ Cup for Golfers with Disability in Italy on Saturday.
The team of Cian Arthurs (Roganstown), Kate Daly (Temple), Conal Flynn (Athenry) and Caolan Munnelly (Tullamore) produced an outstanding performance across three days of tough competition, narrowly missing out on gold as England claimed the title on a countback.
“The conditions were very difficult. The heat and humidity were extreme, but everybody rose to the occasion,” said Kelly.
“It was a determined effort, and they played some really good golf, but it was their determination and their hard work that impressed me most.”
Ireland took a one-point lead going into the final day after Daly, Arthurs, Flynn and Munnelly combined for a 150-points in the net Stableford competition. Arthurs and Daly returned 40 points in the final round, while Flynn and Munnelly added 42 to keep Ireland firmly in contention.
England and Ireland finished tied on 232 points overall, but England secured the title on a countback after edging the final round by a single point, leaving Ireland to settle for a hard-earned silver medal.
Despite the narrow defeat, Kelly was full of praise for his players and the entire support team.
“The performance over the three days was exceptional. They really rose to the occasion, and they were so unlucky not to come away with the gold medal, but their second place on countback was a credit to them and the coaches and everybody involved.”
“They played their hearts out. We’re very proud of them. Huge thanks to Gerri Houlihan and the coaches Mary Doyle and Ian Stafford. Thanks to all the players as always and we’re looking forward now to the next hosting of this event, which will be in Ireland in a couple of years’ time.”
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