7th July: Irish Eyes Smiling At Euro Victory

Irish eyes were smiling at Western Gailes this afternoon, as the team captained by Michael Burns stormed to victory to claim the 2007 European Team Championship title.

Facing a formidable French side, the Irish were undaunted as they embarked on their critical afternoon singles campaign after finding themselves all square at lunchtime – with one foursomes win apiece.

The first win of the afternoon went to Brabazon Trophy winner Romain Bechu, who led for most of his game before clinching a 3 & 2 win and much prized scalp of European Individual Champion, Rory McIlroy. Ireland’s Shane Lowry levelled the scoreline again to keep the French advantage at bay, by securing his 5 & 4 singles win over Victor Dubuisson.

As the remainder of the matches progressed, it was Jonathan Caldwell’s bout with Aleaxandre Kaleka which was to prove pivotal to Ireland’s successful campaign.

Caldwell said, “I looked at the score board at the 10th and knew at that point we were up in two of our matches and down in the others which meant the title rested on my shoulders.”

Inspired by the challenge, Caldwell hit a great wedge shot 70 yards to land four foot from the pin, which he holed for a birdie to go level. After halving the 11th, Caldwell continued his winning streak at the 13th,14th and15th to give him the upper hand. Determined not to relent having suffered defeat at the hands of Kaleka and his compatriot earlier in the day, Caldwell holed his critical putt at the 16th to seal his win and the title for his team.

Commenting on his glorious victory, Caldwell said, “We knew it would be a tight afternoon and I was under a lot of pressure when I realised how important my match was. But I wasn’t scared, I knew I was playing well and was lucky to pull off the shots at the right time and put him (Kaleka) under pressure.”

He added, “We were always confident that we could beat France and I am sure we will have a big celebration when we get back home.”

Elsewhere, Richard Kilpatrick claimed his singles win over Adrien Bernadet, whilst Simon Ward’s joust against Jean Wolff was halved.

Taking the European Team title for the 4th time with a 4 ½ - 2 ½ victory, a buoyant Team Captain, Michael Burns said, “This has really been a great week and a great day for us. Ayrshire really has a gem of a course here at Western Gailes, and we have enjoyed the many challenges it has thrown at us.

“I am delighted with our win here today, all of the players have done their part and contributed to this title, and Kilpatrick’s course record breaking form this week certainly proved to be a good omen. It has been a wonderful tournament and it is a great reward for all the hard work and preparation to be taking the trophy back to Ireland.”

Reflecting on the outcome, French Team Captain, Pascal Grizot said, “It was disappointing not to take a win here today, especially as the last time we made a final in 1967 we were beaten by Ireland.

He added, “It was very close and I think some of our players were a little bit tired today – it has been a long week for all of them. But it was a great final match and performance, and it will be good for our team to take their silver medals back to France.”

Bronze went to hosts Scotland after they secured a 4&3 victory over England.