Down to a Tee

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Patrons Quinn & Giles on top form as 42 teams flock to IPFBA Golf Classic at Castleknock

Our third annual IPFBA Golf Classic (15 May 2026) proved to be one of our most successful fundraising events yet. A record 42 teams took to the fairways at Castleknock Golf Club in Dublin, creating a fantastic atmosphere from the first tee through to the “19th hole”.

The response from members, supporters, and especially sponsors (including Mercury Engineering, Grant Thornton, and Fortus) was exceptional, generating very meaningful funds to advance our work supporting the wellbeing of former League of Ireland players.

A stunning course with fine facilities, Castleknock was a wonderful venue. Thankfully the weather was in cooperative mood and the competition was extremely keen, with Michael Murphy’s team, out early, emerging victorious to claim the IPFBA Perpetual Trophy.

TEAM EVENT WINNERS

Place	Captain	Team Members
1st	Michael Murphy	Dessie Baker, Richie Baker, Peter Gray
2nd	Brian Kelly	Danny O’Connor, Niall Hudson, Andy Myler
3rd	Jonathan Bayley	Alan Darcy, John Weafer, Seán O’Connor
4th	Brian Duff	Conor Whelan, Sean Dooley, Scott Parker
5th	Tom Conway	Ger Brennan, Fred Gilfillan, Mark Smith

INDIVIDUAL PRIZES

Longest Drive: Seán Slaughter
Nearest Pin 9th: Alan Darcy
Nearest Pin 18th: Derek Rogers

Niall Quinn and friends mixing after the golf. Photos: Gary Ashe

Committee triumph

The event ran flawlessly thanks to the excellent work of the organising committee, headed by Alan O’Neill (below) and supported by Harry Kenny, Robbie Gaffney, Gino Lawless, Carmel Nulty, Pat Byrne, and Peter Madden. And not forgetting our raffle organiser Joey Malone for all his input. Their preparation and attention to detail were evident throughout, down to the fruit and protein bars supplied by Sysco to keep energy levels up.

As always, the post-round dinner and afters was a highlight. The ever-popular Niall Quinn was a genial host, while his fellow IPFBA patron and Ireland legend John Giles was a hugely appreciated presence at the prizegiving. Both took time to chat, reminisce, and meet participants. A superb live music set from Gael Force really added to a wonderful evening.

IPFBA chair Harry McCue praised all involved: golfers, sponsors (see end of page), volunteers, committee members — not least ‘man of the match’ Alan & co. — and our patrons, whose collective support made this event such a resounding financial and social success.

The day was also made extra-special as League of Ireland legend Pat Byrne celebrated his 70th birthday in the company of former team‑mates, friendly rivals, and lifelong pals from across Irish football.