Following the conclusion of the PGA in Ireland campaign, Simon Thornton has been crowned Elavon Order of Merit champion for the second year running.
The Newcastle man claimed six victories, including the PGA Open Series event at Carlow Golf Club, finished third at the Irish PGA Championship at Limerick Golf Club, and played a key role for Great Britain and Ireland at the PGA Cup at The K Club where the team ended the United States dominance in record-breaking fashion.
In a year where he was also serving as Captain of the PGA in Ireland, Thornton played in 32 events and alongside the six wins, had a further six runner-up finishes and was only outside the top 10 on eight occasions, finishing the season a cumulative 66-under-par.
“It’s a true honour to win the Elavon Order of Merit for the second year running, and an even greater honour to do it as Captain of the PGA in Ireland,” Thornton said at the PGA Partners Day at Luttrellstown where he was awarded the Order of Merit winner’s plaque by Elavon’s Paul Dunne.
“The standard of play is extremely high on the Region, and continues to get better with each year, and none of it would be possible without the generous support of the many tournament sponsors and Elavon in particular for their continued support of the Order of Merit.
“I’ve been fortunate to play with members of the Elavon team at many of the Pro-Ams and they are all fantastic people and have a true love for the game. We look forward to their continued support in the years to come and maybe I can make it a hat-trick next season.”
Richard Kilpatrick, who also claimed six victories, finished the season as runner-up to Thornton, with Conor O’Rourke in third place, Colm Moriarty in fourth, and Michael McGeady completed the top five.
PGA in Ireland Manager Conor Dillon paid tribute to Thornton’s impressive play and also expressed the PGA’s appreciation for Elavon’s continued support.
“Congratulations to Simon on another incredible season,” Dillon said. “His consistency throughout the entire year was extremely impressive and it’s a thoroughly deserved Elavon Order of Merit title.
“I’d like to express huge thanks to Elavon and to Paul Dunne for their continued support as title sponsor, and the Elavon Order of Merit has once again provided some fantastic competition throughout the season.”
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