2013 National Strokeplay

The PPUI National Strokeplay returns this weekend to historic Rocklodge, this is the seventh such time that the event has been played on this testing course. The first visit was in 1962 where Kevin Rogers (Portmarnock) was the winner, his victory bringing to four in a row for the famed brothers from the seaside course. Just two years later in 1964 Michael O Riordan of the home club emerged victorious, another gap of two years brought victory to Pat O’Brien (Woodvale) in 1966 just two years later and in 1968 Rocklodge returned another Dublin winner in Eamon Tully of Lucan. A further four years and in 1972 John Crowley of Highfield retained the title he had won in Ierne in 1971. These two victories combined with the Matchplay victory in 1973 by Pat Hogan (Catholic Institute) marked an unmatched run of three National titles won by left handed players. Almost a quarter century elapsed before Rocklodge again hosted the championship and Liam O’Brien (Douglas) emerged victorious. This leaves the ratio of titles won by Dublin at 2 and Cork at 4, looking at the 2013 field the odds would seem to be against Dublin narrowing the gap.

What can one say about Rocklodge? A course of great challenge was created from very uncompromising material and this was done at a time when pick and shovel were the instruments not so much of choice but of necessity. In post war Ireland in 1946 the enthusiasm of a new beginning proved the catalyst for such a creation and the course of today bears testament to this hard work.

The junior event on Saturday starts the Championship at 8.30 with a field of 36 players competing with ten of these qualifying for a final 18 holes. 11.30 will see the  Intermediates take to the first tee with twelve of the 44 to qualify for the final 18.

The course is in superb condition and all that remains for a perfect weekend is for the weather to oblige and keep the showers to a minimum. So if you want to see the best in Pitch & Putt played on one of the most challenging courses in Ireland come to Rocklodge at 8.30 on either Saturday or Sunday.