The winners of the tournament bag €25,000 for their chosen charity with Monaghan out in front heading into the final round but Kilkenny and Tipperary are within reach of the top of the leaderboard.

The three-day competition began on Wednesday, May 12th and involves teams from the 32 counties, comprised of former star hurlers and footballers.

The president of the GAA, Christy Cooney said the fundraiser is already an important event for the association.

Mr Cooney said: "This is now a permanent fixture in the GAA calendar with the money raised benefiting those who need it most in our communities. It is appropriate it is now an official charity of the GAA. The event has gone extremely well. The course and hospitality has all been excellent and the important thing is that it is raising funds for the teams’ chosen charities."

One of those playing is former Kerry footballing great Darragh O Sé who said: "This event is absolutely fantastic. The venue is great and so is the organisation. It is my first time here and I hope it continues for many years. The .location is ideal, having everyone in the one place. I really enjoyed the courses too."

Down’s Greg McCartan agreed: "This is my second year here and it is brilliant. We are very well looked after. There is a lot of organisation involved and everything has run very smoothly. It’s also nice to see a bit of sun after the Irish winter."

La Cala Resort is owned by the Irish company, FBD Insurance plc.

It is the largest golf resort in Spain with three 18-hole courses and a par 3 course.

Earlier this year the Waterford senior hurlers used the resort as a winter training base.