In the second round of the East of Ireland tournament, Noel Fox managed to better Ken Kearney's record of 65 in last year's third round. Scoring 64, nine under the card, he was the best of some very commendable scores. Setting a new amateur record for the course at Baltray, it also equals Eamonn Darcy's 2000 mark in the Irish PGA Championship.
In the first five holes, Fox shot six under par with four birdies an eagle. Even a scrappy bogey six at the sixth hole failed to stifle his momentum.
Later at holes 10 and 11, he managed two more birdies. A combination of clear thinking and decisive play as well as keeping his cool, ensured that Fox would break the record and stay in the lead.
By the time he reached the 18th tee at eight under, it was clear that Fox was on target. An appreciative crowd cheered him on and is one of Irish amateur golf's best-kept secrets.
Fox has won the East of Ireland tournament twice as well as being an Irish Strokeplay champion. Currently at 10 under par 36 holes to play, his hopes of winning the title for the third time.
The rest of the competition also managed to keep Fox from getting too far ahead. Lee Owens shot 69, followed by Michael Sinclair on 67 and Clandeboye's Chris Moriarty who with 65 was nipping at Fox's heels.
