GOLF: Whitehead's JR Galbraith set for NI Open

The 22-year-old, who won the North of Ireland in 2015, tweeted news of his inclusion at the Galgorm event.

“Massive thanks to @modestgolf for the invite to play in the NI open, supporting local golfers,” he wrote.

Earlier this year, Galbraith tested himself against some of the world’s best golfers at the Rory Foundation-backed Irish Open. He was one of three leading amateurs selected by the Golfing Union of Ireland to compete with the professionals at the K Club.

Now he will get the chance to show what he’s made of at the NI Open which tees off at the Ballymena course on Thursday, July 28.

Galbraith’s home club, Whitehead, was also quick to thank Modest!, spearheaded by One Direction singer Niall Horan, for offering the local star an opportunity to showcase his skills.

On Twitter, Whitehead praised the management firm for ‘supporting local talent’.

Modest! announced a partnership with the NI Open in May, with international superstar Horan saying: “The next generation of golfers is a huge focus for us as a business. You only need to look at the history of the Challenge Tour to see the calibre of player it produces.

“We are hugely excited to be official partners of the NI Open, and look forward to welcoming some amazing golf talent from across the world.”

The local connection at the annual tournament doesn’t end with the talented Galbraith. Ross Oliver, who hails from Carrick, is the Event Manager for the NI Open.

Meanwhile, Stephen Rea’s nett 66 was enough for him to win the Monthly Medal at Carrickfergus GC on Saturday. Low handicap winner was Adrian Baird (nett 66), while C. Montgomery was a high handicap winner with a nett 68. George Armstrong won the Gross prize with a score of 74.

Jim Livingtsone was the Super Senior winner after he carded 36 points.