Ryan Griffin withdraws from the South of Ireland Amateur Open due to injury

Golfer Ryan Griffin from Ballybofey and Stranorlar had to withdraw from the Pierse Motors VW-sponsored South of Ireland Amateur Open due to a back injury sustained after a fall at Lahinch. 

Earlier, Griffin secured a narrow 1-up victory over Ballybunion's Senan Carroll in the day's first match. However, after returning to his accommodation to prepare for his second-round encounter with James Walsh of Douglas, the fall aggravated his back issues. This occurred on a day when other competitors like Jack McDonnell, Keith Egan, Hugh Foley, TJ Ford, and Jack Hearn were also eliminated. 

Before his withdrawal, Griffin had dominated the stroke play qualifying, finishing four shots ahead despite challenging conditions over the previous two days. The 24-year-old Maynooth University athlete followed his opening round of 66 with a solid 71, ending the event at -7.  

He finished ahead of Patrick Adler from North Shore, USA, and Quentin Carew from Castleknock, attributing his excellent form to his recent participation in the Arnold Palmer Cup held three weeks prior.