Sandford Open Golf Championship

06/06/2017

Good evening one and all,

After much consideration the Board is pleased to confirm the field for this year's Sandford Open to be held Saturday 17th June 2017.

This year is of course extra special as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, and we are confident of making this the best championships yet.

Thank you for your forbearance as the profiles and odds have been prepared.

Good luck and look forward to seeing you all again next Friday.

Sandford Open 2017-

Rab - Controversy has followed this reasonably talented golfer since he first came on the scene in the late ’naughties’. Last year promised to be a new beginning for the bronzed enigma but his drug fuelled rage continued to earn him as many enemies as friends on and off the course, reportedly daring to confront the Champ at the post tournament soiree. A repeat of 2011’s success would likely get a lukewarm response, particularly with the more established members of the field, and having recently proclaimed to be driving the ball over 360 yards its unclear if he is of sound mind or indeed still on ‘the juice’.

As recently and May this year Wee Jeff was seen ‘buying a lot of love’ on some of Europe’s most vermilion side streets, it appears his love life continues to be a shambles and is unlikely to help his challenge this year. All this adds up to relatively long odds for what should be one of the young pretenders brightest hopes. 7/1

D. Currie - If there were jackets for enthusiasm David would have them all but unfortunately for the pint sized Mid-Ulster man this tournament only rewards the most serious of athletes. Recently seen in South London sleeping semi rough clutching a signature bottle of ‘Soco’ with his shirt still baring the stains of canine faeces picked up at last years tournament. It looks like the curry chip will be found in the smoking area on Sunday morning trophyless, voiceless and burnt to a crisp once again. 20/1

D Flan - Everything seems to be going right for London’s top mixologist at the moment. So much so that he has been seen at recent social gatherings hugging everyone in sight and proclaiming his undying love for anyone who would listen. Despite this its is hard to see that this high will bring any trophies to the multiple Beasley wearer.
The real question is whether Flanyard will become the first man to have a hat-trick of shameful waistcoats. Recently spotted dancing around his living room, sweating profusely in y-fronts he does look in the shape of his life. This synthesis of mental and physical wellness may just be enough to save him from infamy for one more year. 40/1

Shane – Years of middle of the field finishes for the younger Boyce sibling mean not many will fancy him for the title. However, if the recent murmurs are true, he has had plenty of practice sneaking up from behind of late, and could spring a surprise. Time will tell whether the strict recent diet of vinegar, spinach and egg whites will pay off. Regardless, he has the respect of the 10th Annual field as he sorted the Slanty issue in the manner expected of the Wine mogul that he is. Likely to be the first to the bottom of his 10 glass on the Saturday evening as once again he gets the pace all wrong but hopefully we will get the much anticipated rendition of 'Star-Spangled Banner' on the journey to The Limelight. 12/1
A Bell – Last year we witnessed this once sporting great being reduced to a nervous, skill-devoid wreck. From 100m glory in his Academy youth, Ulster and Irish under-age hockey honours to what we witnessed last year was frankly embarrassingly for Linda, Wesley and all concerned. The only Bell not disgraced by the performance was the younger sibling, who could only grin with gratitude. One positive to emerge was the chance to see a very tidily taken dirty. We can only assume that the weight of running Whitehall has got to the older Bell brother. However, with pictures having emerged of extensive putting practice with his Civil Service belle, is a sporting talent to be re-born? Unlikely. 50/1

Corey Bell – A strong debut from the youngest contender in our ranks in the pinting stakes. More than lived up to his Dundee acquired reputation and his chairmanship of the Slanty drinking games belied his youth. His golfing ability on the other hand left much to be desired. A 9 on the benign 2nd could have crippled a lesser man but he was able to grind the round out to make sure he had the bragging rights in the Bell household for the year. Has to be seen as a contender for the Beasley and with rumours of gourmet cooking taking precedence over refinement of the heavy handed putting stroke, a third resident of Foxleigh could be donning the famous garment come the Limelight. 45/1

Rege Laverty– Took some time out last year due to the “curious incident of the rabbit in the daytime” but is back this year, calves bigger than ever, to launch a challenge. At what though? Look, if the man could swing a club as well as he commands a site in the North-West of England, we would be in trouble but let’s face it, the baby elephant only has a shot at picking up one item of clothing and it won’t be the coveted green jacket. Can only hope that his recent downhill experience on the trails of South Down will fare well for his stamina. Potential for a strong showing in the Friday match-ball stakes. 40/1

Ed Pepper
A notable absentee from last year’s tournament following a late withdrawal, Ed’s game will be under intense scrutiny at La Decima. The two year hiatus could be his downfall- sources close to him say his excitement for this year’s steam is unprecedented and that he has joined a south London body building club in a misguided and desperate attempt to get fit for the tournament. Known to enjoy the finer things in life, the Rowantree man will need to keep his mind firmly on the golf and off the world’s best stout but he will be a strong contender for the Friday match-ball no doubt. A highly publicised affair with a member of Coldplay earlier this year threatened to derail his comeback, though the personal issues finally seem to be behind him. Perhaps more suited to designing courses than playing them, Ed must go down as a strong contender for this year’s Beasley. 40/1

James Posner
A strong debut from the East Londoner last year, finishing in the top 5 of the field. Embracing Upper Bann culture, he was a hit with the Sandford fraternity. When not wheeling and dealing in the soft furnishings black market, Posner has been known to put rounds in with premier league footballers. What he lacks in fo****in, he makes up for in hand-eye coordination. James must not let the occasion get to him if he is to have any hope of taking the Claret Jug this time round- he has been known to lose the run of himself on big occasions, and this could cost him dearly on the challenging links. Should a lid be kept on things, don’t be surprised to see the golden Jew well and truly in the mix come crunch time 8/1

Adam Ervine
Reigning champion Ervine has had an incredible 12 months. Clinching last year’s open in the most dramatic of fashions was the catalyst in a series of events that saw the Castlewellan Road man go on to inspire Banbridge to a first league title and put a ring on the finger of his childhood sweetheart. Unfortunately for the law-making whippersnapper, it seems old habits die hard as his chocolate-man alter-ego took control once again. To rob a champion of the chance to defend his crown would be a cruel turn of events, but write him off at your peril- remember that he was an injury doubt in the build up to Sandford 2016. Broken thumb or not, should he conquer all odds and make the playing field on June 17th, Ervine will go down as one of the favourites. 3/1


Marlfox
The aspiring young architect is one of the more popular figures in West Donegal and part of the Sandford lifeblood. Foxy by name and nature, he is a vocal steamer yet often manages to sneak around the golf course unnoticed. Despite having 7 Sandfords under his belt, his golfing ability is still unknown to many. He tends to hover somewhere between mediocre and solid. There will be nowhere to hide at La Decima though, where if you aren’t challenging for the title, you are flirting with Bill. Fox is a cool customer but the dapper and laid back facade is a front for someone desperate to do something special on the course. Many big life decisions lie in wait for the former Foxleigh resident- his mind will be fried from the pressures of professional and personal life. Give him a choice of clubs and he might just breakdown. If he pulls through, he should be safe. 16/1

Mark McCracken The largely unknown quantity of Greenan Drive's third son exploded onto the scene in 2016 in projectile-style, showing a blatant (but justifiable) disregard for founding member Niall Marley's fashion sense. However, this contributed to the young uncle donning his now infamous double black T and trackie-b combo for the remainder of the weekend. In golfing terms, young McCracken made less of an impact, but in a first tournament, that can be a commendable achievement. With the unexpected hurdle of the debutant pint behind him, who knows how far the Greenan Barf Zuckerberg can go. Could encounter a glitch in the code during his second outing, and inadvertently follow a hyperlink to www.beasley.com. Expect a series of Dirty Denial of Service requests from all those sitting in the front row during that shameful coronation.
Mark is likely to get as close to the Claret Jug as his older brother, 12,000 miles away in New Zealand and his odds reflect that. 45/1


David Beattie: Well, what can be said about this eccentric exile? Albeit a talented sportsman, he has never really got to grips with the Sandford Links and has consistently turned in scores which are only consistent with the chances of him returning to gainful employment anytime soon - average. His unbridled enthusiasm for the Sandford is surpassed only by his love for the grease - a tradition which he continues to dedicate copious amounts of time to in the opulent surroundings of the south of France. As verified by fellow competitor Niall Marley on his recent visit to Marseille, the ass print on DB's sofa is something Michelangelo would have been proud of. However he will need to be getting into a entirely different kind of groove come competition Saturday or it could be more 'la Beasley' than 'la baguette' for the balding Ballynaskeagh man. Chances of him donning the Green Jacket - just as slim as his waistline. 16/1

Mark McKenna: The sole debutant will have his work cut out if he is to make his ‘Mark’ at this year’s event. A Fortwilliam golfing prodigy; McKenna was once hailed as North Belfast’s answer to the late, great Harry Bradshaw. Ironically, just as the demon drink did for old Harry in the 1949 Open, so too has the Cliftonville Calcavecchia ‘bottled’ his chance of golfing glory in recent years, as a result of excessive derving. The only positive aspect of this Dundee alumnus’ sporting partnership with Tennants Special Brew has been the correlation between his blood alcohol level and double bogeys. It may be written in the stars however, that as The Championship celebrates its Tin anniversary, a man who has drained, worn and hoovered more tins than many thought was humanly possible, could enter the Sandford snake pit and continue to defy common consensus with a rookie win.
Like his first year of university, Wee Sacks may have to repeat Sandford a few times before he emerges top of the class, but his golfing pedigree can’t be ignored, and a number of ante-post bets have placed him near the top of the docket - 2/1 JF

I. Livingstone: You can’t spell Urban regeneration and green belt sustainability, without ‘ability’ and ‘stain’, and the lanky Aberdonian’s Sandford career encapsulates both. Buckets of talent undone by moments of ignominious scandal. The Ryden Ryder’s focus coming into the 2017 season has never been sharper, and his eyes are fixed firmly on the ultimate prize. His unfortunate New Year’s companion found out, to her cost, just how callous this inconsiderate as***le can bewhen the Narin sea breeze fills his sizeable nostrils. Whether it be an assault in a hot food bar, public urination or childgrooming, this Candyman usually does what he wants, when he wants; and woe betide anyone who gets in his way. The best days of the Greenan Gatsby may be behind him, but if he breaks par as ruthlessly as he breaks hearts at this year’s tournament, then the planning application for his claret jug trophy cabinet might finally be approved. Transformed from Pat Bateman, to Pat Bate (any)Man - 7/1

C. Boyce: Recently relocated to the nurturing bosom of a desirable Upper Bann postcode, Champagne Chrissay will be hoping that the renovations planned for his Sandford portfolioare kept on schedule at this year’s event. Although he may describe it as a unique fixer upper opportunity, the more critical members of the golfing fraternity would label Boyce’s Sandford exploits to date, as a barren wasteland of perennial disappointment and underachievement. Persistent knee injuries have diminished the once prodigious talents of this property magnate, and his Grand Designs on wearing Green might be entering the realms of negative equity. The Location Location Location of Wa**er #3’s second tenner of wine, come competition day, could see Shooter’s McGavin teeing up in a Real Estate. If that’s the case, expect Gravy to miss out on the jug for another year. 4/1
L. Quinn: A famous man once said that “those who travel to mountain tops are half in love with themselves, and half in love with oblivion”. Despite being a permanent feature in renowned publications such as The Curious Pear and The Puddingstone Post, along with his younger sister and boss, Sarah, the keen climber and 2011 champ is faced with the oblivion of irrelevance, when the scorecards are marked on competition Saturday. But the fact remains, and one can’t simply comb-over the truth. Quinn has been there and done it. From obscene to Green, and back again. One fears that the day of the underdog might never come again, and wee Locran is a fading link to that bygone era. It would be a cruel shame if he were to once again don ; 12/1

S. Arnold: The thigh high Poultry Prince of Upper Bann will be hoping to put a year of personal and political scandal firmly behind him, when he tees up at La Décima on June 17th . The New Line Man needs no incentive; renewable or otherwise, to try and replace the warm glow of his family’s empty outhouses with the warm glow of Sandford success, but it will take more than the prayers of DUP politicians for that miracle to occur. The Moy Park mogul will definitely be feeling the heat coming up the stretch, and many spectators would see it as fitting penance for triggering the demise of devolved government, if the Fox, running the hen house, was to end competition Saturday with the humiliation of Beasley. 18/1

N. Marley: Since his last victory in 2013, the firebrand Fanta pants has been more concerned with chasing ambulances, as opposed to Claret Jugs. Setting aside deep seated sectarian inclinations for the sake of a ride, the Moyallen Michael Collins is currently basking in the effervescent glow of a courtship that transcends the peace wall divide. His recently adopted Protestant children may be wondering why their new daddy's eyes are closer together, but 'Uncle Niall' will surely be accepted as part of the family if the Claret Jug is added to the numerous junior pipe band certificates that already take pride of place on the sitting room mantelpiece.".
Never managed to mentally recover from the brutal chunder assault during the Friday evening draw in last year’s tournament; which highlighted his mental fragility. This inked up, former winner has all the tools to run away with victory, but it is his handicap of acute alcoholism, rather than his single digit golfing one, that could dissuade potential backers. Will be hoping for some ‘ghrian te ar a aghaidh’, as long as he has packed his translator app and some factor 50. 2/1 JF

R. Simpson; Another successful year on the Banbridge tour should precipitate a coming of age in Donegal, but the Lotus Court ladies’ man is no ‘shoe’-in. His appetite has been questioned on numerous occasions, and not just as a result of his miraculous weight loss. One suspects that Roy just doesn’t have the personality to tame the West Donegal course. He truly is a 5 o’clock shadow of himself when he tees up outside Huntly Road. Rumours of a fledgling romance abound, and a split from his long time management company, Bachelors ForLife, looks inevitable, if Esther’s blessing is forthcoming.However, despite being expensively repackaged in a body of sculpted stubble, the Polyethylene Pl***oy will need more than taut glutes to bring the Jug back to 742 Evergreen Terrace. 3/1

N. Allen; Many believed that the German above the door at G. A Allen’s remained ‘Deutz Fahr’, but since Neil’s unexpected promotion from only son to director, the words ‘Arbeit MachtFrei’ have replaced the recognisable farm machinery logo. More Swindler than Schindler, the emaciated taskmaster has yet to re-emerge into the Upper Bann social scene since his extravagant 2016 wedding. The gossip columns of the GlascarGazette have suggested that, despite a restrictive socialising clause imposed in the pre-nuptials, Allen has found timeduring the off season to develop a new golf swing, which has reportedly doubled his maximum driving distance to a whopping 50 yards. That kind of enhanced yardage off the tee could be invaluable if The Boy is to finally become The Manat this year’s tournament. Probably best to follow Neil’s example though, and keep your wallet firmly in your pocket, because the only green jacket Mr McGown will be wearing come Sunday will be one of his own company’s freebies. 33/1

A. Laverty; The sentimental punters out there will fancy a flutter on the follicly faulty founding father finishing first, but expect the Taunton Topper to gravitate towards his Beasley roots. Psychologically, has looked all over the place since his father, Brendullah Al-Milforti, shockingly converted to radical Islam in 2013 and proceeded to join Daesh on the front lines in Mosul. Combined with Andy’s unenviable role as playerliaison officer with the Annora proprietors, come tee off time,Baldy Drew’s focus can be as unsound as the foundations of Slanty. Who can forget the sumptuous hole in one in 2012, and who’s to say that the middle Laverty won’t be the one who finally gets to inscribe that famous surname onto the Claret Jug. 25/1

C. Wilkinson: Local hero Shay Given has long been referred to as ‘Conor Wilkinson’s second cousin’ in these parts, so that should give you some indication as to the calibre of competitor that we will be welcoming from Ravenswood. The less agreeable Wilkinson twin has suffered from some majordisruptions in his preparations for this year’s tournament. Accustomed to testing the petrochemical consistency of McLaren F1 fuel; in a grave oversight, Wilko left his dipstick in the lesser known Italian ‘Tempia’ model for too long, resulting in the second illegitimate child of Sandford. The Exxon Mobil whizz is so vehemently opposed to environmental issues, that his playing contract forbids any contact with Green, so expect him to be nowhere near the putting surface or the winner’s blazer come competition Saturday. 12/1

P. Magee: They came at the King in 2016, and Swerve didn’t miss! The putt for an unprecedented Sandford hat trick was left agonisingly short on the 18th green last year, and who knows how that first taste of defeat will affect the Lurganman, who had previously swept aside all before him. It will be a true test of character to recover from such heart break. Disappointment on the course was somewhat mitigated by personal success off it; but with one eye on a glitzy Ashburn wedding, the former double champ may find it difficult to replicate his focus and form of years gone by. However, freed from the inhibitory pressures that accompany a defending champion, returns on an E/W Magee bet are as guaranteed as further Ulster Bank closures. TBC

Michael McKenna: A surprisingly competent sportsman. Despite being named after a semi aquatic mammal, this Otter won’t be caught floundering around the Donegal course. Can sink putts, pints and pies (in a bread roll) all day long, but this former Belfast Harlequin is no clown. Has honed his golfing skills on the mean streets of North Belfast, and thrives in an atmosphere of intimidation. Who’s to say that this left wing liberal can’t come out of left field and lift the Claret Jug. Could be more interested in posting opinion pieces from The Independent rather than posting low golfing scores in the run up to the tournament, but exit polls suggest the Greasy Boss can expect a top 10 finish. 5/1

P. Dobbin: The chances of Big Pete winning the Sandford are on a par with him ever needing to purchase a tub of Brylcreemagain. What the gentle giant has lost in hair, he’s made up for in course savvy. While deciphering the topography and undulations of the devilish Sandford greens might be Double Dutch to some, this polyglot is already fluent; and if it comes down to a battle of putting strokes, then there is no one better. Expect a comfortable top half finish, but too many superior golfers would need to have an off day for P.D to claim the Green Jacket. For better value, see odds on Dobbsy sealing a pre-2018 engagement to his restless better half. 8/1

D. McCague: Has really taken to the spirit of Sandford in recent years, but the course pays no heed to sentimentality or enthusiasm, and the cold, balding facts remain that Dave just hasn’t demonstrated the required golfing nous to be considered as a viable contender. Despite adding a few kilos to the shoulder area over the past couple of years, that trademark ball striking ability, which has fared him so well since his Edenderry days, is clear for all to see. His family may have destroyed all memory of his childhood to break into the Hillsborough B&B business, but it is a different B&B that should worry Davy a bit more. Bill & Beasley! Nevertheless,in the months leading up to his wedding, there isn’t a man out there who would begrudge him a top 5 finish. The Edentrillick Eagler would have to punch well above his weight to secure that kind of round, but a quick glance at his other half will show you that he is no stranger to doing exactly that. 14/1

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25/05/2016

Gents,

Please find below runners and riders for the 2016 Sandford Open Championship.

Beasley and brothers specials will be available directly from P. Magee in West Donegal.

Special thanks to Beattie, Shanebo, Dobbin, Magee and Marley for their efforts.

See you all at the bar next Friday xx

D. McCague

David, the balder of the two McCague brothers has had a helluva year to date. Despite slightly controversially pulling out of a ringside appearance at the Frampton fight in February, David redeemed himself by sealing his engagement to long term yoke Laura. Adorned by fans the world over for a quirky penchant to wear Hawaiian shirts on the course David has always looked very comfortable with a tinnie and a wedge in his hand at Port Noo. While harbouring ambitions to make the transition from the short format to the long format of the game, murmurings from behind the ropes are that he should walk before he runs. An outside shot yes, but David possesses natural ability so don't be surprised to see the Edentrillick man post a score on championship day. Represents value for those seeking each way returns. Question mark over temperament though. 14/1

P. Magee

what is there to be said, that hasn't already been said about the Lurgan man. The mop topped whirling dervish exploded onto the Sandford scene (and steam) in 2014 with a stunning debutant win. A man so in control of his game, he was able to cripple one of his main challengers, both competitively and financially. The reverberations were felt throughout West Donegal when he defended his title in 2015 to get his hands on the inaugural Green Jacket. Can he seal an unprecedented hat-trick? See rival Bookie

S. Arnold

The pint sized poultry heir is a real scrapper. He may dress like the fifth member of Mumford & Sons, and Babel a fair bit when the stouts are in, but this Little Lion Man is a consistent performer. What he lacks in height, he makes up for in heart. An unorthodox athlete, whose round always adds up to less than the sum of its parts.

16/1

L. Quinn

The People's Champion. Like the moon landing of 1969, rumour and accusation continue to blight the remarkable round that brought him victory in 2011. Who better to deal with a slanderous stain, than the Apron Adonis of Foxleigh Fields. No mountain is too high, no girl is too married and no memory too distant. Write this former champ off at your peril. He knows what it takes to win, and despite limitations, always gets the best out of what he's got. Much like his hair style. 14/1

N. Allen

single figures is not something you associate with this, soon to be hitched, regular attendee. The petite provider of tractors may not hit it Fahr, but his tenacity around the green is second to none. No woman wants the ignominy of marrying a current Beasley holder, so the pressure is heightened. He'll be McGown on the honeymoon alone if his laser-like accuracy deserts him. 20/1

P. McCracken

if ever there was a man who encapsulated the spirit of Sandford, it would be the pineapple headed, piano man from down under. No stranger to indiscretion, the disgraced former double champion is getting his life back on track, following a string of personal and professional misdemeanors. This is a man who knows how to come first. Just ask the mothers of his many illegitimate children. 8/1

I.T. Livingstone

Has had his fair share of scandal off the course, but it is only a matter of time before 'Taz' puts himself in contention going up the final stretch. One senses that being on home soil is the key to this man's success, so lets just hope this ah-ah as***le doesn't misplace it again. 6/1

C. Boyce

when it comes to moving day at Sandford, this property tycoon's bubble always seems to burst. Arguably the finest all round sportsman in the field, Gravy is due a big round. Persistent knee problems have hampered his quest for glory. However, as the spotlight of expectation dims, he may fly under the radar this year; back door entry of a different kind. 9/2

P. Dobbin

Name the Sandford player who is the darling of banbridge, lisnagarvey, dundee, Léon and Donegal. Yes; that's right. Trivia king Peter Dobbin. Don't underestimate the Boardmills wordsmith. He can run rings around you in any language, but will be looking for that superiority to translate onto the golf course. Fancied for a career best Sandford finish after completing an extensive pre-tournament coaching and practice schedule. Este año podría su año. 10/1

R. Simpson

Things just haven't added up for this whizzkid accountant. Some would say that the Annaghbane lothario is the complete package, and if anyone should know about that, it's Roy Simpson. A permanent fixture in the Chronicle's golf supplement of late, showcasing the well maintained stubble that's proving to be the most popular piece of rough for the female members of B.G.C. Only a matter of time before everything clicks; although his followers will hope that it's his game rather than his cruciates. 2/1 Favourite

N. Marley

many fans feared that they had seen the last of the ginger assassin, as he whittled his online presence down to a minimum every Friday and Saturday night. A founding member who courts controversy wherever he goes. Probably the greatest exponent of the long form of the game, on show in Donegal. One would have expected more N. Marley tags on the claret jug, if talent alone was the arbiter. Always on the verge of a meltdown; the Moyallen Man has to keep a lid on his demons in order to subdue the challenge of his despised Young Pretender competition. 5/2 2F

M. McCracken

little is known of this debutant competitor. His drinking and playing career is shrouded in mystery. A veritable hall of smoke and mirrors. What is known, is that this maverick McCracken has Sandford blood coursing through his veins. An exciting prospect to welcome a third competitor from the talent factory of Greenan Drive. Mark will wheel his bag up as an unknown, but will he leave a legend? And can the Claret Jug be brought on as hand luggage? 30/1

C. Bell

The younger of the two Foxleigh Bellor siblings is a newcomer to the Sandford this year and will no doubt be a popular addition to this year's already turgid field. Coming with a strong reputation from Dundee University, Corey will be duly reminded that it means 'f**k all' in Portnoo, and that his original style of hockey has garnered him long odds at his debut Championship. Good luck, Core, he will need it. 30/1

R. Bell

Bellor understandably succumbed to the delights of the elusive Sunday Steam at last year's Sandford, which speaks volumes to how highly The 'Or values the Championship. His scorecard however also succumbed to the same level of steamy lethargy which saw him finish middle of the field. With an eye for a ball and a bottle of wine, could Bellor find the focus he needs this year to challenge? Time will tell. 20/1

S. Boyce

Competing brothers is somewhat of a theme at this year's tournament, and the Boyce brothers have pitch n putt in their veins having spent wind swept summers learning their trade on the links at Cranfield pitch n putt. This younger sibling has grown to become part of the fabric of the Championship and is always ready to represent fiercely for the new school. Doesn't possess the ball striking ability to win in Donegal but is capable of a strong finish and would love to be in the mix down the stretch on Saturday more than most given his long standing affection for Sandford week. However if this Boyce is to mix it at the business end of the leaderboard, his mental toughness must improve. Will always attract a big gallery thanks to a huge social media following and an outrageous wardrobe (watch out for a punchy socks and sandals combo this year), but needs to handle the occasion better especially on the greens. Win lose or draw be sure to find Shanebo at the business end of a BOB early doors on Saturday evening, Sandford veteran and a fan's favourite. Prediction- top half, just.12/1

A. Marley
A Sandford regular and no stranger to west Donegal steam. Don't let the chilled/ hipster façade fool you, the fox is fiercely competitive and desperate to improve on years of sandford mediocrity. Knows the course and indeed Portnoo better than most which will be key to his chances. Has now been living with several other high profile Sandford competitors for 6 months and it will be interesting to see how this new insight will have affected his strategy. Has reportedly been sighted practicing his short game in recent weeks which shows the fox is not planning on simply making up numbers this year. Unlikely to pose a serious threat to some of the more serious golfers but could put on a good show if things go his way
14/1

D. Flan
A real fan's favourite and the source of some of the Sandford's most glorious ever moments. Unfortunately for Darren, many of these golden memories have been at his expense. He takes a pint like a champ but will be doing everything in his power to avoid a record breaking 3 Beasleys in a row. Following last year's sensational implosion on the back 9, he must surely go down as this year's leading contender to take Bill home once again. A decent striker of the ball on his day, Darren must conquer his inner demons if he wishes to dodge dirty pint hell on Saturday 4th June. 25/1

R. Montgomery
Has a history of courting controversy but as a former champion there are no doubts about his golfing pedigree. Although the doping allegations now seem to be behind him, rumours of a connection to republican and South American gangs come as an unwelcome distraction in the build up to this year's tournament. Let's hope the whispers about his love life and living arrangements don't become a focal point over the Sandford weekend. Once out on the course, Rab will hope to put aside the spice boy image and once again show the golfing world he can mix it with the best. Likely to be in contention coming into the final holes - 15/2

J. Posner
Sandford debutant. A talented golfer in his native Essex but it remains to be seen if this can translate to success in west Donegal. Got a taster of upper Bann steam while skiing with some of the competitors last year and has been frothing at the prospect of proving himself on the big stage. As only the second ever English competitor, the pressure is on for James to perform well and not to repeat the mistakes of his national predecessor (currently serving three life sentences at her majesty's pleasure). Doesn't lack confidence, but a lack of experience could prove fatal to his chances. One to watch 7/1

D.C Currie
DCsoco became something of a cult hero following last year's performance at the Sunday steam. His antics on snapchat, his love of derve and his sheer pleasure at being involved in donegal's most prestigious tournament make him a popular competitor. It has been suggested that the atmosphere on game day somewhat overwhelms him. David enjoys a smoke more than most and it could prove to be his downfall this year. Will need to stay focussed on his short game rather than his bine count if he is to mount any sort of challenge - 25/1

A. Crozier
Having taken a lot of flack in recent years for neglecting the physical element of the game, Crozier seems to have rediscovered some of the sporting pedigree which once made him a revered candidate for Sandford glory. He has been very vocal in his desire for a so called "young pretender" to find success in this year's build up but questions remain over his own tenacity. Adam is one of a number of players who is incentivised equally by fear of the dirty and desire for glory. Is he worth a punt? At this stage in his career he is very much seen as an outsider despite being in his best shape since 2012. The Milfort man doesn't take a hangover well so performance on the Friday steam will be key 14/1

M. McCague
Younger of the McCague contingent and hotly tipped as one of this year's favourites. Meggy hasn't had the smoothest of preparations in the build up to Sandford 2016, having been a senior figure in the BMA Junior Doctor's committee. However, the recent agreement reached with Jeremy Hunt has been a massive weight off his shoulders, allowing him to at last focus on this year's tournament. He will still be reeling from a recent shock loss to Appy in another tournament but sources close to Mark insist this has only served to fuel his desire for Sandford success. Protractors will say he lacks the killer instinct to go all the way but expect him to be within reach coming into the final few holes 6/1

A. Ervine
Last year Ervine went down in Sandford folklore with his moving rendition of "Rathfriland on the Hill". He will be hoping to go down in folklore for a very different reason this year. Usually considered amongst the tournament favourites, Swerve has often flattered to deceive at the Sandford. There are no doubts about his talent but the pressure of the occasion does seem to somewhat affect him. Adam will really need to compose himself and play his natural game if he is to have any hopes. Aside from the mental anxiety, he also faces an uphill battle for fitness, having recently torn ankle ligaments in a game of rugbayy football. It's difficult to predict how successful his recovery will go but it seems unlikely, once again, that Adam will reach the heights needed to conquer the field - 14/1

D. Beattie
David Eric Beattie (formerly of Moss Road UB, now of no fixed abode) helped solidify the infamous Bill Beasley memorial and his contribution should not be underestimated.

However, given that the only shaft he has handled in the last 3 years was on a boozy nite in Bangkok, it is likely our prodigal son will see more bush this year than one of his now le***an ex girlfriends.

This game is crazy and wouldn't it be a typical, cruel twist of fate if we saw UB's Christopher Columbus be in the running for that infamous Beasley jacket on championship day.

Rumours of yet more eccentric phases in the form of veganism/ vegetarianism means he now weighs an unhealthy 6 stone- whether he can muster the strength to hold the club will be in question. The only thing keeping him going will be the thought of a lifetime of happiness with a new French lover , combined with his obligations at Neil Allen's wedding.

However , it is unlikely Beattie will see either as he faces a targeted steam onslaught from Niall Marley who will be bombarding him with more reds and blues than a Manchester United Chelsea champions league final. Should he face the Beasley a flashing taxi to Letterkenny hospital is certainly a possibility given his complete lack of drinking in the Australian outback. Once a respected Dundee uni steamer- Davy now apparently sees a good nites craic as a game of connect 4 with Chinese migrants in a 50 degree hut , hundreds of miles from civilisation.

A clever man, Beattie s only saving grace is his experience and adequate level of hand eye coordination, despite an age old shoulder issue caused by excessive schoolboy bishop bashing in Moss Road.

The safe money is on Beattie surviving the Beasley but a lot depends on his physical condition which is still relatively unknown. The Board have quashed rumours of him carrying Swine Flu and Beattie himself has had to reportedly pay off Seamus, Smiler and a host of Portnoo underworld figures for a place at this years tournament. Don't expect him to get a raucous welcome like McCracken , but the smart money is for this rattlesnake to avoid the Beasley in the Wild West.

Far from va va voom, this beat up Citroen saxo is more likely to drive into a huge pile of m***e. But will it be au revoir that night? We shall see. 15/1