Barton Shield Qualifying

This year the Barton Shield reverted to strokes qualifying format (aggregate of two foursomes pairings), held in Skerries Golf Club.  With only 4 teams to qualify from 20 entrants we were always going to up against it with the format generally favouring the larger clubs, many of whom had ex and current Internationals in their line ups. 

Conditions were tough with a stiff breeze and the course playing difficult, evidenced by the fact that only the leading qualifier (Corrstown) had both scores in the 70s (75 + 78). Only a handful of pairings broke 80 which reflects both the difficult format and also the challengin conditions on the day. We finished down the field but the players have gained important experience particularly as we have not played in Barton Shield qualifiers for a number of years.

Sutton were represented by Shane O’Sullivan, Simon Lewis, Sam Kelly and Philip Higgins. Both Simon and Sam were making their debuts in this format of Barton Shield. Shane was recruited last year from the Links and Philip has rejoined Sutton having played as a junior member, both are welcome additions to the Premier Panel. All four acquitted themselves very well and represented the club in a proud and sportsmanlike manner. 

We are in a process of re-building at this level of Interclub competition and this was another step on the journey – next up for our lower handicap players is Senior Cup qualifying at the end of June which will be another milestone.