Members of the Hilary Golfing Society added greatly to firsts in golf when their opening event of the season was played at Royal Dublin on Sunday. Sponsored by Esat Digifone, the event was played in conditions not too conducive to golf which resulted in some remarkable tales.

Local Shane Lavin won the event with an excellent 72 off a six handicap. Noel Fox lost a ball at the eighth but still came back to take the gross prize with a 74.

Local professional Leonard Owens hit three drivers to the 11th but still took eight. On the green in three, his first putt rolled off the green into the bunker and after his recovery he had three more putts in his next attempt at holing out.

Turlough Boylan (Naas) started with three birdies as he raced to the turn in 33. However, the homeward journey proved more hazardous taking 49 shots. The team prize went to the Royal Dublin team of Stephen Prendergast, Niall Lavin and Shane Lavin with 67.