Padraig Parkinson offers to buy the drinks after winning the UKIPT Galway...

LOCAL hero Padraig Parkinson won the inaugural UKIPT Galway last night, pocketing £115,000 (€125,000).

The veteran, who boasts seven WSOP cashes, saw off Liverpool’s Paul Marrow to win the unofficial ‘Irish’ title – and a £5,000 seat into the EPT London next October.

Former Late Night Poker champ Parkinson, who was born in Galway, took an early lead in heads-up play when his A, Q held against Marrow’s pocket sixes.

Marrow briefly fought back, doubling up with J♠, Q♠ before the Irishman finally sent his good friend packing when his K♥, Q♥ was far too good for Marrow’s 2♣ 5♥.

...and runner-up Paul Marrow duly tucks in!

A delighted Parkinson said afterwards: “I was born just down the road so I can’t believe that I won it.

“If anyone wants a drink, I’m buying!”

Marrow meanwhile was gracious in defeat, claiming that although he was desperate to land the title he also wanted Parkinson to win in his own back yard.

Both online qualifiers that made the final table put in a strong performance.

Michael Graydon finished fourth, winning £32,500 (€36,000) which namesake Michael McFadgen pocketed £20,000 (€22,000) in fifth.

UKIPT Galway: €2,000 Main Event results and payouts

• 1. Padraig Parkinson €125,000 (+£5,000 EPT qualifier)
• 2. Paul Marrow €82,000
• 3. Ben Lefew €52,000 (online qualifier)
• 4. Michael Graydon €36,000 (online qualifier)
• 5. Michael McFadgen €22,000
• 6. Paul Dooley €17,000
• 7. Vinny Cosgrove €13,000
• 8. Cat O’Neill €11,000
• 9. Trevor Bulless €9,000