Dermot ready to pursue his ‘pro’ dream

The Ballymena player is ready to attempt to make the step up from amateur level.

His latest exploits in the Northern Ireland Open Challenge at Galgorm Castle Golf Club may provide extra impetus to the quietly-spoken McElroy.

The 20-year-old didn’t look out of place among the Challenge Tour professionals as finished tied for ninth overall, joint top Irish player and leading amateur in the prestigious event, which drew crowds totalling more than 20,000 to the Galgorm course over a four-day period.

McElroy was actually disappointed with his game this week, claiming that he, ‘couldn’t get it going all week’.

“It was my chipping that really kept me in it and my putting was very good,” said the 20-year-old, who plans to take a break before focusing on European Tour Qualifying School later this month.

“It has been a fantastic week. I really, really enjoyed it and the crowds have been great. They gave me great support all week.”

In a previous interview with the Ballymena Times, Dermot has expressed his intention of sticking with the amateur game with a view to potentially playing in the Walker Cup, the highest accolade in amateur golf.

But after being overlooked by selectors for next month’s competition, he may now opt to try and join the paid ranks.