Teenager Dylan Holmes left stunned in interview as he emulates idol Rory McIlroy with shock West of Ireland win in Sligo
The 18-year-old managed to hold off the challenge of Warrenpoint's Colm Campbell in a tense final to win 2&1 and capture one of Ireland's most prestigious amateur titles.
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Dylan Holmes secured the West of Ireland Amateur Open on Tuesday
Credit: ©INPHO/Ben Brady
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The 18-year-old's won on his debut in the event at County Sligo Golf Club
Credit: Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Ben Brady
The youngster started the week as a MASSIVE 150/1 outsider to lift the trophy in the west of Ireland.
He now becomes the youngest defending champion of the tournament since Rory McIlroy claimed back-to-back victories in 2005 and 2006 - Masters champion McIlroy was just 16 when he claimed his second title.
Holmes joins an illustrious list of Irish golf icons including McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley, all of whom earned their first major amateur title at this very event.
To make things more impressive, it was the 18-year-old's debut in the event at County Sligo Golf Club.
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Following Holmes' breakthrough in Sligo, the Leaving Cert student spoke to
The final at County Sligo Golf Club was played in relentless wind and rain.
But he didn't care as he was overjoyed with the triumph.
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"I was just really nervous coming down the stretch there. I did something similar in my previous matches and managed to get it done on 18. I'm sad that it's over."
His father was on the bag for the week, just as Rory McIlroy's dad Gerry had been during his son's early triumph in 2005.
Shocking moment 'biggest snake ever' slithers across golf course terrifying fans
Asked about giving his father a perfect birthday gift, Holmes responded: "I didn't get him anything.
"So...that's for him as well, which is nice. He was brilliant caddying for me all week and then was just outstanding as well."
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Despite what was at stake for the teen, Holmes still thought about watching idol
He told
'Watching Rory [was more stressful] – at least you have some sort of control over the situation when you're doing it yourself.'
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