Grant Thornton is title sponsor of the Isle of Man Close Amateur Golf Championship for the 8th year in succession.
Since 2006, the company has supported the prestigious contest, which attracts more than 80 amateur golfers for the week-long championship showdown. This year’s Championship takes place from June 15 to 22 at Douglas Golf Club.
Grant Thornton Senior Partner Dennis McGurgan, a keen golfer and current Chairman of Ramsey Golf Club, said:
“I am delighted we are continuing our longstanding sponsorship of what is one of the highest profile events in the Isle of Man sporting calendar.
“Every year the Championship produces an exceptionally high standard of play, and we have been treated to many thrilling finales over the years. As well as sponsoring the Island’s premier golf championship, we are also very pleased to be supporting what is an invaluable opportunity for members of the Island’s golf squad to experience tough competition and the pressure of quality opposition in a major championship, experience which stands them in good stead as they play off-Island.”
He added:
“The Isle of Man Golf Championship provides amateurs a chance to play at a high level, provides entertainment for spectators and is one of the major sporting events in the Island every year, and I am delighted to confirm we are continuing our valuable partnership with the Isle of Man Golf Union.”
Every year entries for the Championship, the Isle of Man Golf Union’s premier annual event, are oversubscribed. There are only 81 places, so inclusion is based on handicap, ensuring a very high quality of competition. Medal play over 36 holes on the opening day is followed by a series of head-to-head matches between the top 16, leading ultimately to a 36-hole final.
In addition to producing a thrilling championship, this is an opportunity for members of the Isle of Man squad to play a tough contest against strong peer golfers and the pressures of a major competition, giving them vital additional experience.
Isle of Man Golf Union President Joe Boyd said:
“It is so important to have the top players competing against each other. There are fewer opportunities for top players on the Island, so it’s good to have this prestigious event sponsored by Grant Thornton.”
