FAIRBAIRN Private Bank has entered into a three-year sponsorship agreement with the Isle of Man Golf Union.

This sponsorship has funded the newly created Fairbairn Private Bank Order of Merit Trophy, which is a prestigious accolade for golf played at the highest level on the Island, and a new target for Island players to aspire to.

Elite Island golfers compete for the trophy by contesting three 36-hole tournaments on different island courses during the season, gaining Order of Merit points from their performances.  In addition, points will be gained from the 36-hole Willie Kirkpatrick tournament, which is played early in the season on the golf course that hosts the Island Championship for that year, as well as from the Isle of Man Amateur Championship.

President of the Isle of Man Golf Union Brian Partington said, “We are delighted and thrilled that Fairbairn Private Bank has agreed to this three-year sponsorship, which enables us to launch the Order of Merit structure as part of our long-term plan for elite Island golf. It is only through the interest and support of companies such as Fairbairn Private Bank that sport on the Island can grow and develop. We look forward to a happy association.”

Confirming the agreement Greg Horton, Managing Director of Fairbairn Private Bank, said, “As an Island-based company, we are very pleased to support the Isle of Man Golf Union, and this competition in particular.  We wish the competitors all the best of luck for this year’s round of tournaments.”

The first competition was held at Castletown Golf Links on May 2nd, and the second and third 36 hole events are to be held at Peel Golf Course on Sunday August 29th and at Mount Murray Golf Course on Sunday September 12th.

Photo:  Fairbairn Bank's Greg Horton with Golf Union

officials Brian Partington, Joe Boyd and Mike Henthorn