One hundred players took part in the annual Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Golf Classic at the Palmer North Golf Course at The K Club today, (Thursday, 29th of June).) The golf classic was hosted by the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free, Colm McLoughlin and his Executive Team and this hugely popular fixture marks the start of the highly anticipated Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival.
Dubai Duty Free’s own golf ambassador, pro golfer, Des Smyth led out the teams following a shotgun start, and the field of 100 players worked their way around the stunning Co. Kildare course which was home to the 2006 Ryder Cup and the 2016 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open. The teams of four competed gamely throughout, though they weren’t aware of each other’s final scores until they were revealed at the barbecue reception later. Later that evening all players enjoyed a beautiful evening barbecue with some traditional Irish live music on the balcony of the Palmer Clubhouse overlooking the spectacular 18th green.
The touring golf pro, Gary Murphy presented on the evening with a total of three teams tying with a score of 91. It was the team of Robert Pepper, Brian McDonnell, Nigel Power and Dan McKeown who toasted success with the team winning on a countback of 47. The four members of the winning team also received VIP tickets for the exclusive Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day at the Curragh Racecourse on Sunday, 2nd of July where they will enjoy full hospitality courtesy of the leading airport retailer.
Speaking on behalf of the winning team Robert Pepper said, “Thank you to Colm and all his team at Dubai Duty Free for hosting us. I would also like to thank Michael Featherston, the owner of The K Club and all the staff for a fantastic day, the course is in excellent condition, and we thoroughly enjoyed playing it today.”
Nearest the pin was won by Robert Burke. The longest drive award for the men went to Conor O’Rourke while Nóirín Donovan scooped the same accolade in the ladies’ category calling for a double celebration on the night.
The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby takes place on Sunday, 2nd of July at the Curragh Racecourse, Co. Kildare (Ireland).
