Latest news with #Pro-Am
Irish Examiner
2 days ago
- Business
- Irish Examiner
'Pissed off' Rory McIlroy opens up on driver leak, weird PGA and post-Masters struggles
RORY McIlroy has hit out at how news of his driver failing a compliancy test at last month's PGA Championship was 'leaked', admitting he was 'pissed off' over how the situation was handled. Making his first appearance in front of a microphone for three weeks, McIlroy opened up ahead of this week's RBC Canadian Open in Toronto. At the PGA Championship in Charlotte last month he had refused to speak to the media for four straight days as a controversy around the testing of players' clubs rumbled. On Wednesday, McIlroy revealed that he was aware world No.1 Scottie Scheffler had also had his driver deemed inadmissible after an on-site conformance test at Quail Hollow by the USGA. However when the news initially broke it was McIlroy who was the only player identified in negative headlines. 'The driver stuff, I was a little pissed off because I knew that Scottie's driver had failed on Monday, but my name was the one that was leaked. It was supposed to stay confidential. Two members of the media were the ones that leaked it,' said McIlroy. 'I didn't want to get up there and say something that I regretted, either, because there's a lot of people [involved]. I'm trying to protect Scottie. I don't want to mention his name. I'm trying to protect TaylorMade. I'm trying to protect the USGA, PGA of America, myself. I just didn't want to get up there and say something that I regretted at the time. "With Scottie's stuff, that's not my information to share. I felt that process is supposed to be kept confidential, and it wasn't for whatever reason. That's why I was pretty annoyed at that.' At a Quail Hollow course which was always a happy hunting ground, McIlroy saw Scheffler win while he laboured to a tie for 47th, his first major after completing the career grand slam at Augusta ending up a peculiar spectacle. McIlroy admitted the tournament didn't go according to plan as he tried to explain why he'd activated mute mode. 'The PGA was a bit of a weird week. I didn't play well. I didn't play well the first day, so I wanted to go practice, so that was fine. Second day we finished late. I wanted to go back and see Poppy before she went to bed. The driver news broke. I didn't really want to speak on that,' he said. 'Saturday I was supposed to tee off at 8.20 in the morning. I didn't tee off until almost 2pm in the afternoon, another late finish, was just tired, wanted to go home. Then Sunday, I just wanted to get on the plane and go back to Florida.' McIlroy spent Wednesday morning's Pro-Am here playing alongside former European Tour chief Keith Pelley, now the CEO of a group which owns the NBA's Toronto Raptors, NHL's Maple Leafs and MLS outfit Toronto FC. In his previous role Pelley played a significant part in the merger talks between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, an affair which McIlroy threw himself front and centre of. But he insisted taking a step back at May's PGA Championship had nothing to do with the feeling of being burned by his PGA-LIV advocacy. "No, not at all,' he replied. 'I've skipped my fair share of media requests over the years, so it's not as if…it was nothing to do with that. It was just some days you don't feel like talking.' McIlroy, a two-time champion here in Canada, skipped the past two weeks of action on the PGA Tour, traveling with caddie Harry Diamond to watch Manchester United's Europa League Final loss to Tottenham and then surprisingly missing last week's Memorial in Ohio. After finally reaching the promised land at the Masters in such dramatic circumstances in April, the 36-year-old admitted there's been an adjustment period as new career and life goals wait to be set. 'I don't know if I'm chasing anything. I would certainly say that the last few weeks I've had a couple weeks off, and going and grinding on the range for three or four hours every day is maybe a little tougher than it used to be,' he said. 'You have this event in your life that you've worked towards and it happens, sometimes it's hard to find the motivation to get back on the horse and go again. I think the last two weeks have been good for me just as a reset, just to sort of figure out where I'm at in my own head, what I want to do, where I want to play. 'I thought it was a good time to reset some goals. I've had a pretty good first half of the season, and I want to have a good second half of the season now, too.' This week at TPC Toronto he's hoping Canada's national open provides more of the same for him. It's not just the victories here in 2019 and 2022 that have served McIlroy well, the event has proven a consistent springboard to his challenges at the US Open, with the next edition just a week away at Oakmont. 'I love that it's the week leading into the U.S. Open,' he said. 'I told this story a little bit, but before playing in this event, 2016, 2017, 2018, I missed three cuts in a row at the U.S. Open, and since playing the Canadian Open the week before, I've had six top 10s in a row. So there's something to that.'
Irish Independent
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
See photos from Rathsallagh Golf Club's 30th anniversary dinner dance
With guests of all ages in attendance, the conversation flowed as members and management from the historic club discussed its golfing legacy and that of founders Joe and Kay O'Flynn, sharing memories of an illustrious past, while creating new ones to last a lifetime. After enjoying a sumptuous three-course meal, 'The Boss' trophy, sponsored by the O'Flynn family, who established and operate Rathsallagh House, was presented to the winner of the club's recent Pro-Am competition, Norm Tanju. Capping off the enchanting evening, guests, including Rathsallagh Golf Club owner Robert Neill and his wife Mary, danced the night away to the lively music of supremely talented former captain Aidan Pierce and his group, Off the Cuff. Thanking the O'Flynn's for their hospitality, Rathsallagh Golf Club general manager Vera Brennan said that the dinner dance was the perfect way to celebrate the club's rich history. 'It was incredibly special to share the golf club's 30th anniversary with the O'Flynn family, and we are delighted that there was so much love and affection for the late Joe Snr – what a great legacy to be remembered,' she said. 'As part of our celebrations throughout the year, we did a Pro-Am the week before, and because the O'Flynn family from Rathsallagh House started the golf club, we decided to go there for the celebrations and make the O'Flynn family part of it. 'Joe Jnr sponsored a golf competition so we could have a presentation on the night. His father was known as 'The Boss', so The Boss trophy was the prize, and it was presented by Joe Jnr to the winner, Norm Tanju. 'The members are thrilled that the O'Flynn's sponsored the trophy and want to make it part of the golfing calendar going forward. A big thanks to Joe Jnr and his wife Sara for being there on the night, and to Joe's mother Kay. 'We are thankful to the O'Flynn's for their very generous hospitality – from the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm welcome and refreshments,' she continued. 'We are grateful that they made the night such a success, and for the generous drinks reception and the extra gestures. We all were spoiled and looked after so well. ADVERTISEMENT 'All week I have been receiving compliments about the wonderful night, the house, gardens, delicious food, and the absolute best service from all your fantastic staff, not to mention the after party in the bar! 'A big thanks to our member Aidan Pierce and his group, Off the Cuff, who were absolutely brilliant, and did a bit of everything, from 80s to jazz – you name it, the played it.'
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Fortnite FNCS 2025 Pro-Am hits peak viewership, draws global applause
Image via Fortnite's long-awaited return to the Pro-Am format proved to be a resounding success, with the FNCS 2025 Pro-Am pulling in a peak of 643,995 viewers and recording over 2.3 million hours watched during its nearly five-hour broadcast. Held at the Galen Center in Los Angeles on May 10, the event marked a major milestone in the game's evolving esports journey. Organized by BLAST and backed by Epic Games, the event featured 20 popular duos, each pairing a top-tier professional Fortnite player with a well-known content creator. The result? A high-energy tournament packed with action, entertainment, and fan engagement. Peterbot and AussieAntics steal the show The star duo of the night was Peter 'Peterbot' Kata and Shaun 'AussieAntics' Cochrane, who secured first place after six intense rounds. AussieAntics, a Dignitas streamer, teamed up with Peterbot, the reigning FNCS 2024 Global Champion and current Team Falcons player, to beat out stiff competition that included names like NickEh30, Clix, SypherPK, and CouRageJD. FNCS PRO-AM 2025 | FORTNITE COMPETITIVE Despite a clear difference in age and prize earnings, Peterbot has earned nearly 40 times more than his teammate - the duo showed remarkable chemistry. Round 2 saw the event's highest viewership as Clix and Lacy clinched a win, but it was Peterbot and AussieAntics who walked away champions. More than just a tournament Beyond the competition, the Pro-Am delivered moments that fans won't soon forget. A heat-induced power outage during Round 4 could have disrupted momentum, but CouRageJD quickly improvised by hosting a push-up challenge between SypherPK and NickEh30, much to the crowd's delight. Fans tuning in were also rewarded with Twitch Drops, offering in-game items like an exclusive spray and backpack. Meanwhile, select AMC theatres across the US screened the event live, giving in-person audiences special redemption codes for Fortnite's Axe of Champions 2.0 Pickaxe. Adding another layer of depth to the event was the presence of Heather 'sapphiRe' Garozzo, esports Hall of Famer and advocate for women in gaming. She praised the growing female representation, citing platforms like The Milk Cup as crucial entry points for aspiring players. The FNCS 2025 Pro-Am sets the stage for a busy esports calendar. Next up is Major 3, starting July 16, followed by the FNCS Global Championship in Lyon this September. With record-breaking viewership and fan-driven innovation, Fortnite's competitive future looks brighter - and bigger, than ever.
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Epic Golf Club Announces 2025 Epic Foundation Pro Am Event
Elite Golf Society Will Donate Funds to Three Deserving Nonprofits Through the Epic Foundation, Supporting Children and Families in Need SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Epic Golf Club, an elite private society connecting the world's most passionate golfers, has experienced remarkable growth and success since its launch in 2018 that has allowed them to give back to the community in many ways. Epic Golf Club has grown into a thriving organization with more than 1,000 members, 25 employees, and a global network spanning 46 states and 16 countries. Through its charitable arm the Epic Foundation, Epic Golf Club has raised and distributed nearly $400,000 to qualifying nonprofits since 2022. The Epic Foundation raises money through a variety of engaging fundraising strategies, with the most impactful being the annual Pro-Am tournament. The highly anticipated 2025 event is scheduled for August 25 at Deepdale Golf Club in Long Island, New York, with a 10 a.m. shotgun start and will close with a dinner and awards ceremony. Each team is made up of one professional and three amateur golfers. Registration for a foursome is $10,000 and includes a round of golf at Deepdale Golf Club, all food and beverage for the day and tee gifts. The event includes a $5,000 professional purse. "Our fourth annual Epic Golf Club Pro-Am Tournament is slated to be an enormous success, and we're honored to make a difference in the lives of so many in need," said Noah DiPasquale, founder and CEO of Epic Golf Club. "At Epic Foundation, we believe in the power of partnership and purpose. We're proud to raise funds and uplift charities that spark real, lasting change in our communities." "This exclusive event is uniquely open to the public—unlike Epic's other events, which are private and reserved for members only," said DiPasquale. DiPasquale envisioned the Epic Foundation as a platform to fundraise for deserving charities through private golf events and tournament sponsorships. By aligning with organizations whose objectives resonate with Epic Golf Club's values, Epic Foundation aims to amplify support and resources for these important causes. The Pro-Am features a number of engaging ways to raise money, including a "beat the pro" challenge on the course, a live online auction featuring golf trips, event tickets and sports memorabilia, as well as a 50/50 raffle. "The nonprofits that the Epic Foundation has chosen to support all do incredible work to support children and families in need," said DiPasquale. Folds of Honor helps provide educational scholarships to families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders. Youth on Course provides young people with access to life-changing opportunities through golf, including the opportunity to play rounds of golf for $5 or less at thousands of golf courses in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. HopeKids provides events, activities and support for families who have a child with a life-threatening medical condition. In 2024, the event was held in the Hamptons, bringing together golf enthusiasts, professionals, and philanthropic individuals who share the common goal of making a positive impact in the lives of others. If you would like to attend, you can register for the event here: For more information about Epic Golf Club, please visit the website, or follow on Instagram @epicgolfclub. About Epic FoundationEpic Foundation ( is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Epic Golf Club. The foundation aims to raise monetary donations through private golfing events and tournament sponsorships to support organizations that align closely with its mission. By leveraging the power of golf and the generosity of individuals, Epic Foundation strives to make a positive and lasting impact in the community. About Epic Golf ClubEpic Golf Club is a private golf society headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., that brings together individuals who share a passion for golf to play the best private golf courses in the world. Founded in 2018 by Noah DiPasquale, Epic Golf Club has evolved into a prestigious organization with nearly 1,000 members. With privileges to 80 of the top 100 golf courses in the United States and a unique reciprocal membership model, Epic Golf Club offers its members unparalleled opportunities to play at the finest clubs, creating a network of golfing elite. For more information, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Epic Golf Club Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time of India
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Peterbot and AussieAntics crowned champions at Fortnite Pro-Am 2025
Image via Epic Games Fortnite's highly anticipated FNCS Pro-Am 2025 wrapped up in style at the Galen Center, with professional player Peterbot and popular content creator AussieAntics claiming the top spot. The duo walked away with $50,000 after outplaying 19 other teams in a format that blended entertainment with competitive action. A unique format with high stakes The Pro-Am featured 20 duos, each combining a professional Fortnite athlete with a well-known creator. Operation Sindoor Amid flare-up hours after thaw, officials say things will settle down with time Ceasefire on, but pressure stays: Key decisions by India against Pak that still stand 'Will work with India & Pakistan to seek solution on Kashmir': Trump This year, players competed in Fortnite's 'Reload' mode - a fast-paced, respawn-enabled format that encouraged aggressive play and dynamic strategies. A total prize pool of $500,000 was up for grabs, drawing elite talent from around the world. Despite the presence of big names like Bugha, Clix, Mongraal, and Nick Eh 30, it was Peterbot and AussieAntics who stood tall. The pair secured their lead by winning Game 4 and maintaining consistent placements across all six matches. FNCS PRO-AM 2025 | FORTNITE COMPETITIVE by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like AI guru Andrew Ng recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around in 2025 Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Peterbot, already a reigning FNCS Global Champion , put on a clinic with 34 eliminations - the highest in the tournament, and dealt over 10,000 damage. AussieAntics, known more for his commentary than competitive play, surprised many with his solid performance, contributing seven eliminations and acting as the perfect support. 'It means everything because now I'm a back-to-back LAN winner,' Peterbot said after hoisting the trophy. AussieAntics was quick to praise his teammate, adding, 'Everyone knows this is his win, but I did my best to not hold him back.' Power outage adds unexpected twist Adding to the drama was an unexpected power outage after the third match. While it briefly halted the action, players and fans stayed in high spirits. A spontaneous push-up contest between SypherPK and Nick Eh 30 kept the energy alive inside the arena. The final standings saw Zemie and Cooper finish second with $45,000, followed by PodaSai and Nikof in third with $40,000. Despite a strong start, Clix and Lacy, winners of Game 2, ended the tournament in 10th place. Top 5 duos and prize distribution: Peterbot & AussieAntics - $50,000 Zemie & Cooper - $45,000 PodaSai & Nikof - $40,000 Setty & Daya - $35,000 StableRonaldo & Khanada - $30,000 With the Showdown Cup kicking off on May 14 and the $2 million FNCS Global Championship set for September, fans can expect more action-packed tournaments ahead. Those who missed the Pro-Am can rewatch the full event on the Fortnite Competitive YouTube channel.
