“1976 Irish Championship — Coleraine, July 17th - 25th 1976 — A short report by David Blair — This year's Championship attracted 28 Irish nationals of 1900 Elo and above. The field contained 5 of the 6 players recently chosen to represent Ireland at the forthcoming Olympiad, namely, Kernan, Ludgate, Doyle, Littleton, Keogh, and was most probably the strongest for many years. The conditions of play were excellent at the new University of Ulster. From the start it seemed obvious that the favourite for the title was B. Kernan who during the last 12 months had lost only two games in Irish tournaments. Alan Ludgate, resident in England and last year's co-champion, was also to be considered as were former champions Doyle, Keogh and Littleton. Except in his game against Littleton, Kernan never really looked in trouble. Alan Ludgate drew too many games to be a winner. Paul Delaney gave a fine fighting performance throughout. Keogh, Littleton, and perhaps Doyle seemed a little below their best in crucial games. Denis Healey continued to improve, following his recent Leinster championship win. This year's championship was sponsored – for the first time – to the tune of £350, giving a Prize Fund of over £500 and a Championship First Prize of £150. ... ”

—"1976 Irish Championship", BCM 1976, p. 445.

“This year's Irish championship held in the new University of Coleraine July 17-25 was a 9-round Swiss for players graded 1900 Elo and above. This and an open tournament attracted 54 entries. The event was heavily subsidised, the total prize fund exceeding £500. First prize in the championship was £150. From the outset Kernan, in splendid form, was never really threatened. Alan Ludgate was prone to draw, Delaney worked hard for a good result. Keogh, Littleton and Doyle seemed a little below their best. Denis Healey continues to improve following his recent success in the Leinster Championship.

Final scores: B. Kernan 6½; P. Delaney, M. Littleton, E. Keogh 6; T. Doyle, D. Healey, A. Ludgate 5½; K. James, P. McCarthy, R. O'Brien, R. Devenney 5; D. Blair, L. Hegarty, G. Jackson, D. Jackson 4½ etc.

J. Hegarty and C. O'Hare shared first place in the open with 6½.”

—"The Irish Championship", CHESS, vol. 41, September 1976, p. 382.