FRENCH OPEN 2008

After a wonderful weekend at the French Open, Ian Farrelly has retained his title. Amid emotional scenes on La Grande Motte's 18th green, the Co. Meath native Farrelly just edged out first round leader Rolf Kwant (Netherlands) by a single stroke. Ian, who has now won four international Opens, carded a Sunday round of 49 for a twelve under par aggregate of 150. Rolf Kwant closed with a 50 for 151. James Carroll (Ireland), the 2006 winner and last year's runner-up, fired a best of the week 47 on Sunday to finish third, just ahead of gallant Tracey McGrath, who led the field into the final round. Tracey's level par last eighteen clinched the ladies title by five shots from fellow Irish player Chrissie Byrne.
Final Leaderboard...

Tracey McGrath, Ian Farrelly and Rolf Kwant on the final green


French Open 2008 Slide Show
Former two-time Irish girls champion Tracey McGrath was poised to make history as the French Open entered its second day at La Grande Motte. Tracey, who was ladies winner at the II Catalan Open last month, led the entire star studded French Open field by a single shot, having carded a second round 48 for an overnight two round total of eight under par 100. Close behind were first round leader Rolf Kwant (Netherlands) and the holder Ian Farrelly (Ireland), who both scored 101 in beautiful sunny conditions. Andorran Pepe Garcia was next on five under.


Dutch international player Rolf Kwant shot a five under par first round of 49 at La Grande Motte and held a two stroke lead over a group of five challengers. Britain's Steve Deeble, the Catalans Jordi Bargallo and Hector Diaz along with the Irish pair Ian Farrelly (the defending champion) and Anto Kavanagh all carded opening rounds of 51.

Christian Auziere's superb Guide to the Les Goelands course