McGuirk qualifies for Open on home course

Son of Prince's Golf Club owner books place at Sandwich on July 14

Andy Roberts's picture
Golfmagic
Mon, 4 Jul 2011
McGuirk qualifies for Open on home course

Francis McGuirk utilised his local knowledge of Prince's Golf Club at Open Championship Final Qualifying last week to punch his ticket to Royal St. George’s.

McGuirk, who finished two shots behind eventual winner Simon Edwards, carded a 36-hole total of 5-under around the Troon Golf managed facility owned by his father Michael, to fend off the likes of 2005 US Open champion Michael Campbell and former Ryder Cup star Paul Broadhurst for the final spot.

“It is hard to describe this feeling,” said McGuirk. “I have played thousands of rounds at Princes Golf Club and have kept a close eye on the developments that have been made over the last 18 months, but to qualify in my own back yard is a dream come true.

“The course was in great condition, and the fact it was the only one of four Local Final Qualifying venues to complete play following the rain delays, is testament to the organisation of the R&A as well as the refurbishments that have taken place.”

Prince's Golf Club will have numerous initiatives taking place during The Open Championship and will be welcoming golfers to play during the week.

Recent bunker renovations were officially opened by double Open Championship winner Padraig Harrington last month, which have enhanced the playing experience of the historic coastal course.