Report/Photo: James Howes

On Thursday night last (16th February 2012) a Civic reception was held at the town hall in Youghal for Anthony O’Loughlin who won the All-Ireland Strokeplay championships in pitch and putt at a superb Douglas course in Cork last July. As well as achieving All-Ireland success, Anthony also equaled the course record in his final round with a terrific score of twelve under par which was enough to secure his first title. It was a very proud occasion for all involved with Claycastle Pitch & Putt Club.

This is the first time in the Club’s history that a player has won a national title and for it to happen in the Club’s 25th anniversary year makes it that small bit more special.

This win also cemented Anthony a place on the Cork team alongside fellow Claycastle player Paudie O’Sullivan who certainly did not disappoint in the Munster Inter-County Championships and the National Inter-County Championships as Anthony captained his county team with great pride to victory in both events.

Anthony although having a great dedication to the game, he also has and shows great pride in our course and works endlessly to keep the course in the condition that it is in today and it is safe to say that without this effort and hard work the course would not be up to a high quality standard.
Anthony who always had belief that he could go on and triumph in the flagship event of the year, never gave up on his ambition and had full backing and confidence from all at the club.
In Anthony’s speech he thanked everyone for the encouragement and belief and said it would not have been possible without the support and assistance shown.

With the National Matchplay Championships just months away and taking place at our course here in Youghal over the June bank holiday weekend, Anthony will have the opportunity to hold both national titles at the same time should he win the event.
We look forward to a bright future and hope that this will be the first title of many for members of our club in the years ahead.