McGee tops qualifying school in England

Rosapenna’s Ruaidhri McGee claimed victory at the first qualifying stage of European Tour school at Wychwood Park in Crewe.

The Derry-born golfer, who is now based in Spain, carded a two-over 74 in his fourth round to finish on three under.

That was enough to give him a two-shot cushion over former British Amateur champion Alan Dunbar, who closed with a 70.

McGee also picked up a cheque for €1,800 for winning the event, while Dunbar claimed €1,200.

Athlone's Colm Moriarty secured his place at the next stage by finishing in a tie for fourth spot, a closing 70 leaving him on one over.

With the top 22 and ties going on to stage two, Ulster amateur Dermot finished alone in 13th spot on five over, with Paul Cutler missing out after a 78 saw him finish on 14 over.

At Fleesensee in Germany, Royal Dublin's Niall Kearney earned a ticket to the second stage by finishing in a tie for ninth spot on 11 under after he closed with a 71. Cian McNamara and Simon Ward both missed out.

The second qualifying stage gets underway in November at four venues in Spain.