Simon Ward from Baltray secured the 105th South of Ireland Championship at Lahinch today by defeating Dunmurray's Darren Crowe 2 and 1 in the final.

The 19-year-old had booked his place in the final by getting the better of Limerick's Pat Murray (2 and 1) in his semi-final, while Crowe won by the same margin over Michael O'Kelly who is also from Limerick.

Earlier this year Ward showed his pedigree by reaching the final of the Irish Close, only to lose to    the best amateur in the country in Rory McIlroy. Crowe, who also lost last year's final to Jim Carvill, did manage to get his hands on his first major title by winning this year's North of Ireland Championship at Royal Portrush.

Crowe took the early lead in today's final but Ward clawed his way back and the pair turned all-square. On the back nine Ward was two up by the 14th, then three up with three to play. Crowe got one back at the par three 16th before Ward's par at the 17th was enough to secure the title.

Final:
Ward (Co Louth) beat Crowe (Dunmurray) 2 and 1

Semi-finals:
D Crowe (Dunmurry) beat Michael O'Kelly (Limerick) 2 and 1
Simon Ward (Co Louth) beat Pat Murray (Limerick) 2 and 1