Thornton and McGrane star in Connemara Pro-Am

Damien McGrane and Simon Thornton turned the Connemara Pro-Am into a two-man battle at the weekend. The duo couldn't be separated after 36-holes in testing conditions at the Co.Galway links, finishing the tournament locked together on five under par.

McGrane (Carlow GC) started the second round five shots off the lead following an opening-round 74 but he stormed through the field on Sunday posting a best of the week 65 (-7) to set the clubhouse target.

Thornton (Tulfarris Golf Resort) was in second place after round one following a two-under-par 70 and he managed to improve by a shot in round two (69) to share top spot with McGrane.

The leading pair finished six shots ahead of a group of six players who shared third place on one over par.

Mullingar professional, James Quinlivan, who led the way at the close of play on day one after opening with a three under par 69, signed for a second round 76 to finish in that group.

GUI National Academy professional, Kenny Fahey, partnered amateurs Peter Higgins, Frank Higgins and John McDonoughue to victory in the team event with a two-day score of 176 points.