Peter McEvoy, course designer for Woodbrook Golf Club, host to the 1998 AIB sponsored PGA Irish Seniors Open has predicted a demanding test will await the European Senior Tour’s top golfers on May 15-17.
Woodbrook, home to the Carrolls International series, has recently undergone a major transformation under the direction of McEvoy to meet USGA specifications. As McEvoy commented: “More length was needed, the greens needed protection by hazard and shape and by using Penn Cross bent we’ve built slope and feature into the surfaces.
“Along with re-routing the course to develop a 6900 yard layout, and the new green shapes, we have not only restored Woodbrook as one of Ireland’s premier golf clubs but provided a course which should ensure both maximum player and spectator interest for the forthcoming AIB Irish Seniors Open. I will be fascinated to see the reaction of players who played in the Carrolls tournament 20 years ago.”
Both Christy O’Connor and Tony Jacklin have confirmed that they will be participating for the second year in an increased field of 90 that includes the majority of the leading players from the European Seniors Tour with a particularly strong representation expected from Irish players.
Tommy Horton, winner of the 1997 AIB Irish Seniors Open and Number One on the European Seniors Tour Money List in 1993, 1996 and 1997, said: “I can’t wait to get back to Ireland and hopefully repeat last year’s success, but there will be stiff competition.”
Andy Stubbs, Managing Director of the European Seniors Tour, said: We would like to congratulate everyone connected with the AIB Irish Seniors Open for their efforts made in progressing this year’s Championship. Increased prize money to £100,000 and the move to the magnificent Woodbrook Golf Club, are certain to be well supported by the members of the European Seniors Tour, and ensure a tremendous spectacle for the golfing public of Ireland.”
