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Caolan Rafferty is Ireland’s grand slam winner you don’t know

Rory McIlroy won the career Grand Slam at Augusta in 2025. Six months later, amateur Caolan Rafferty became Ireland's other slam winner.

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 11:35 AM
Caolan Rafferty is Ireland’s grand slam winner you don’t know
Key Things to Know
  • Caolan Rafferty is the only amateur golfer to complete Ireland's Provincial Slam across all four regional championships.
  • Unlike prominent Irish peers who turned professional, Rafferty chose to remain an amateur following his 2019 Walker Cup appearance.
  • Rafferty will compete for the International team against the United States at the Bridges Cup at Trump Turnberry.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Irish amateur golfer Caolan Rafferty achieved a unique feat by becoming the only player to complete Ireland's amateur "Provincial Slam." The Dundalk native captured titles at the North, South, East, and West of Ireland championships, a feat unmatched by famous compatriots such as Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, and Darren Clarke who turned professional before sweeping the events.

After stepping away from golf at 18, Rafferty rekindled his passion, playing in the 2019 Walker Cup and 2020 Palmer Cup before opting against a professional career. Now working as a club fitter for Ping, Rafferty is set to represent the International squad at the Bridges Cup mid-amateur tournament at Trump Turnberry from October 5-7.

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