Delight at civic reception for golfing hero Paul Dunne
WORLD-class golfer and winner of the 2017 British Masters, Greystones native Paul Dunne, was honoured with a civic reception by Wicklow County Council last Thursday in recognition of his outstanding achievements on the international golf circuit.
A gathering of family and friends were present to celebrate this special event at Greystones Golf Club where Paul is a member and where he started the journey to becoming a professional golfer.
Paul was a stand-out golfer on the Ireland Junior Circuit and was considered one of the top junior players in Ireland. He first came to prominence at the 2015 Open Championship and turned professional that year. He had his first European Tour win, taking the British Masters by three strokes from Rory McIlroy after a final round of 61.
The Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Edward Timmins, said: ‘Paul has proven himself to be a wonderful ambassador for Ireland in the field of sport and everyone in Greystones and the entire County Wicklow is immensely proud of his remarkable achievements. He is a terrific example to all young Irish people and what he has accomplished in such a short time is tremendous. Wicklow County Council is delighted to honour Paul’s achievements this evening by holding this Civic Reception.’
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Frank Curran said that a civic reception is held for a person who has distinguished themselves in their field and who in turn has brought honour to the county in which they live.
‘Paul has elevated County Wicklow onto the world golfing stage and we are honoured to have such a remarkable talent living in our county,’ said Mr Curran.
The Cathaoirleach of Greystones Municipal District, Cllr Derek Mitchell, warmly welcomed everyone saying: ‘What Paul has achieved over the last number of years is quite astonishing. He is truly an outstanding Irish athlete and we are delighted that we have been given the opportunity to honour him tonight in the presence of his family and friends and that he accepted the invitation from the elected members.’
Greystones Club captain Barry Massey said that they are all immensely proud of Paul and what he has achieved.
‘He has put Greystones Golf Club on the world map. Paul is a wonderful role model, not only for the juniors here at Greystones, but for juniors throughout the county and country. This is only the beginning and I believe there will be many more days to celebrate in the future.’
Greystones Club Captain, Angela Shaw presented him with a framed photo of him- David Parle with Paul.