West Waterford Golf Club is proud that amateur Gary Hurley, one of the first players to come through the ranks at the club, is competing in this week's Irish Open at Fota Island .

The 21-year old international was born the year the club was inaugurated and will become the second West Waterford man to play in the event since Seamus Power competed at Carton House both as a professional last year and an amateur in 2005.

"Both players came through the junior ranks at West Waterford and contributed in no small way to the three Irish Junior Foursomes pennants proudly displayed in the clubhouse," the club said in a press release. 

"Thanks to the foresight of men such as Pat and Justin Spratt and Pat Murphy, the dream which started in 1993 at Coolcormack Valley is gradually becoming a reality.  Gary received the invitation based on a number of exceptional performances at events throughout the world at amateur level. 

"Having played some of the toughest courses worldwide including Sawgrass and St Andrews, the NUI Maynooth student enters the field carrying a wealth of experience during his amateur career to date. 

"He will have no inhibitions in mixing it with the big boys and as always we can expect a top class performance from the affable Aglish man.  He carries with him the good wishes of all in the club along with the support of the local area."