Ederney brothers Darren and Declan McKeever have qualified to make the Ireland team to take on the United States at the second staging of the International Kings Cup at Lough Erne Resort in May.

Six handicapper Darren and Declan who plays off 13 won their section in the Ardglass Qualifier which saw them compete at Lough Erne Resort on Sunday for a coveted place in the 16 man team.

The duo produced another excellent round to again win the A Category (5-10 handicap section). The boys shot a gross 74, counting the best strokeplay score from either player at each hole and this was sufficient to see them prevail.

Darren explained: “It was a tough round out there and there was great competition in each category. Obviously we are delighted to make the team and this is a great event which we are really looking forward to.”

Following on from the four regional qualifiers throughout Ireland, 60 players competed on Sunday determined to book their place on Ireland’s 16 man (8 pairs) team to face the USA at Lough Erne over three days of competition from Tuesday, May 23 to Thursday, May 25.

As such then it was no mean achievement for the Fermanagh men to make the team.

The International Kings Cup was first played in 2016 and finished in dramatic style with Ireland winning after a thrilling play-off.

The Ryder Cup style tournament, which honours golf’s greatest ambassador Mr Arnold Palmer, features 16-man amateur teams of all handicap ranges from Ireland and the USA going head to head.

Lynn McCool, Director of Golf and Head Professional at Lough Erne Resort said: “I want to thank everyone who competed in the regional qualifiers at Ardglass Golf Club, Ennis Golf Club, Westport Golf Club and Dunmurry Springs Golf Club.

“The opportunity to represent Ireland against the USA really has grabbed the imagination of many keen golfers and I wish to extend my thanks to officials at the clubs involved for helping to promote the concept.

“We were encouraged by participants and fans of the tournament to take qualifying around the country so that’s exactly what we did. The competitors love the format [four different handicap categories and two age brackets] which means that everyone, regardless of age or handicap has a chance to represent Ireland.

“We are looking forward to welcoming all the qualifiers to Lough Erne, many of whom will be visiting for the first time, so they can savour the Northern Ireland golfing experience.”