Golf classic honoured one of the greats of rugby club in Tipperary
Classic in memory of the late Johnny Hannigan was resounding success
Building on the lasting memory on one of Cashel Rugby Club’s greatest, the inaugural Johnny Hannigan Golf Classic took place in Thurles Golf Club.
Johnny, who died last January, was instrumental in organising the annual golf classic on behalf of Cashel Rugby Club, would have been proud with the success of the event. Over 108 teams participated despite the poor weather, and all participated with great enthusiasm and in memory of Johnny.
The organisers are especially grateful to the event sponsor, Whitewater Group, whose valued partnership was central to this year’s Classic.
They also acknowledge the Cashel Palace Hotel for its exceptional generosity in sponsoring a luxury overnight stay at the five-star Cashel Palace, coupled with unprecedented access to the world-renowned Ballydoyle Racing and Coolmore Stud. This unique experience was auctioned at the prizegiving and club social evening in the clubhouse.
Over two fantastic days of golf, the support from players, sponsors and volunteers was incredible, making this event a huge success both on and off the course.
First place - Hayes Hotel Team (Templemore), James Smyth, Dean Tobin, John Smyth 108 pts.
Second place - Pat Toomey Team (Ballykisteen), Pat Toomey, Denis Ryan, William Hanley 107 pts.
Third place - Brian Sheehy Team (Non GI), Brian Sheehy, Gerald Gleeson, Ian Croke 108 pts.
Fourth place - Marie Slattery Team (Thurles), Marie Slattery, Seanie Mockler, Sean Mockler 105 pts.
Fifth place - Adrian O’Dwyer Team (Dundrum), Adrian O’Dwyer, Joe Murray, Leon O’Dwyer 102 pts.
Sixth place - Ladies Team (Dundrum), Frances Boyle, Helena Ryan, Marie Holohan 88 pts.
Nearest the Pin winners - Hole 3 Michael Hickey (1 ft), Hole 5 Gerald Gleeson (3 ft 5 in), Hole 11 Brian Sheehy (3 ft 1 in), Hole 14 Timmy Moloney (3 ft).
Congratulations to all the winners and well done to every team who teed it up across the two days. The atmosphere, competition and camaraderie captured exactly what this event is about; celebrating rugby, golf and community in memory of Johnny Hannigan.
A very special thank you once again to all the sponsors, volunteers and everyone who made this event possible. We look forward to building on this fantastic start and making the Johnny Hannigan Rugby Golf Classic a permanent highlight in the Cashel RFC calendar.