Campbell seeking his third Flogas Irish Men’s Amateur Open title at The Island

Colm Campbell

Brian Keogh

Warrenpoint’s Colm Campbell will face top-class opposition when he begins his defence of the Flogas Irish Men’s Amateur Open title at The Island today.

He tees up alongside James Nash and reigning West of Ireland champion James Claridge in a strong field featuring last year’s runner-up Matt McClean, 2017 and 2021 winner Peter O’Keeffe and last year’s North and South of Ireland champion Hugh Foley.

Roganstown sensation Sean Keeling is also looking to continue his fine year, while Campbell is determined to back up his 2022 success.

“I’m looking forward to it; it’s hard to believe it’s been a year since I last won there,” said Campbell, who won in 2016 at Royal Dublin before beating McClean in a playoff at The Island 12 months ago.

“The Island is obviously a really good golf course, and it will be a good test, so I’m looking forward to getting back to it and giving it another go. It’s great to see so many of the lads coming over from the UK and further. It’s set up for a really good week.”

There will be 55 overseas players in action, including ten of the Great Britain and Ireland Walker Cup squad, with Campbell bidding to become the first player to successfully defend the title since Keith Nolan in 1997.

“Any time you are defending a tournament, it’s one you are marking down, especially going back to the place where you won it as well,” Campbell said.

“I’d say it’s one I have been looking forward to going back and giving it another go.”