Mayo golf talent to represent Ireland at Home Internationals

Mayo golf talent John William Burke has been selected to represent Ireland at the upcoming Home Internationals.

It's not the first major tournament for the Ballyhaunis native. The 16-year-old recently competed at the European Young Masters in France. Nor is it the first call-up to the Ireland team for Burke.

"His success isn't a surprise," says Johnny Burke, the teenager's father, speaking to The Mayo News.

"John gets up at five in the morning every single day and gets his round of golf in before he goes to school. He has been doing it for years. Easily got his 10,000 hours of golf together."

The total dedication of John William Burke at this young age is reflected in his handicap which currently stands at +3.4. 

He already competes in adult competitions, such as the Connacht Men's Open Stroke Play Championships in June this year. 

John William finished the competition in 12th rank, being the youngest participant in the field. He scored 71,74 and 64.

"He is one of a kind", says Ballyhaunis Golf Club Registrar Shane Buckley: "It's also great for us, as a small 9-hole golf club. And he is so down to earth."

John William Burke will be part of the Ireland Boys team at the Homes Internationals, to take place in Woodhall Spa, England, August 6-8.

Ireland won the R&A Men's and Women's
Home Internationals last year. Photo: Scottish Golf.

Reigning champions Ireland have selected their teams ahead of the R&A Men’s and Women’s Home Internationals in England next week.

The action takes place at Woodhall Spa between 6-8 August with Stuart Grehan (County Louth) one of the automatic selections for the Men’s team from the Bridgestone Order of Merit.

The Flogas Irish Men’s Amateur Open champion will add his experience to a strong lineup which also includes his fellow clubman and Amateur Championship finalist, Gavin Tiernan.

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