Sharon Conway and Michael Wynne take top honours in global short-format event
Sharon Conway and Michael Wynne, representing Rathcore Golf Club in County Meath, claimed a memorable victory in The R&A 9 Hole Challenge Final, played on the Championship course at Royal Portrush just days before the start of The 153rd Open.
The pair won with a nett aggregate Stableford score of 37 points, triumphing over 39 other teams from across the world who qualified through more than 711,000 nine-hole rounds played globally.
A Personal Victory on a Global Stage
For Conway, the win carried deep emotional weight. Dedicating the round to her recently deceased in-laws, she described the experience as both overwhelming and meaningful.
“It’s been a hard two weeks,” she said. “My dad texted me to say there were two special people looking down on me today. That got me a bit emotional on hole one, and I didn’t have a great start. But I pulled myself together and just didn’t stop until the ball was in the hole.”
She added, “It was such an amazing event—to get to play Portrush is so special and the views from 12 to 18 are spectacular.”
Her teammate Wynne echoed the sentiment: “Our prize was getting to play Portrush and soaking up the atmosphere. The course is in fabulous condition.”
Spotlight on Shorter Formats and Wider Access
First launched in 2016, The R&A 9 Hole Challenge promotes the shorter format of the game as a more accessible way to enjoy golf, whether recreationally or competitively. This year’s finalists hailed from ten countries, including Argentina, South Africa, Canada, and the Netherlands.
Young players were also prominent in the final, with 14-year-olds Harry Blood and Andrew McWhirter of Brighton & Hove finishing runners-up. Scotland’s Jack West, also 14, teamed up with his father Neil to compete.
Rising Popularity, Especially Among Women and Juniors
Data from The R&A shows continued growth in nine-hole golf, with a notable 42% increase in rounds played in Argentina and rising participation among women in South Africa. In Australia, integration with junior programs like TeeMates has led to younger players adopting the format—and more of them obtaining official handicaps.
The success of the 9 Hole Challenge reflects golf’s evolving appeal. With less time commitment than traditional 18-hole rounds, it offers more flexible access to the game’s physical and mental health benefits.
