Irish Golf Desk
Golf news and features
Irish Golf Desk - Irish Golf News
Site last published: 11/21/08
The Irish Sun 2008
It's Padraig v Tiger for PGA Tour gong
21/11/08 17:26
The European Tour slipped up yesterday when it revealed in publicity for its Yearbook that Harrington has won the European Tour Player of the Year and Shot of the Year awards, which were not due to be announced until next month.
But he really wants to become the first European to win the Jack Nicklaus Trophy awarded to the PGA Tour’s Player of Year after a vote by the US tour players. And while three-time tour winner Kenny Perry, FedEx Cup champion Vijay Singh and poster boy Camilo Villegas have also been included on the ballot, his biggest rival is world No 1 Woods. Read More...
McIlroy challenging in Hong Kong
21/11/08 17:00
Victory would catapult McIlroy, 19, into the world’s top 50 and next year’s Masters at Augusta. And he feel ready to finish the job after notching up a confidence-boosting five top-10s from his last seven starts.
Just two shots behind amateur rival Ollie Fisher (65), Oliver Wilson (66), South Africa's Louis Oosthuizen (62) and Chawalit Plaphol (66) of Thailand on six under, McIlroy said: “I played really nicely and I feel that I could have done a little better. I didn’t birdie any of the last five holes and I probably had four wedges in my hand and could have birdied a couple.
Read More...
Tiger set for 2010 JP McManus Invitational
19/11/08 18:33
While he can command up to $3m in appearance fees, the world No 1 has answered the call by his Limerick pal to tee it up for free at stunning Adare Manor & Golf Resort from 5-6 July 2010.
Read More...
Faldo wants some Rory glory
19/11/08 18:29
Europe’s defeated Ryder Cup skipper will play for the first time in 12 months when he tees it up alongside former Faldo Series graduate McIlroy and Irish World Cup pair Graeme McDowell and Paul McGinley in this week’s UBS Hong Kong Open.
Read More...
Harrington inspired by Munster rugby
19/11/08 18:23
And while Ireland’s triple Major winner never got the chance to shine at rugby, he can identify with the pressures faced by goal kickers and the never-say-die spirit of Munster rugby.
Read More...
Langer tips Harrington for Masters glory
18/11/08 18:08
The German legend, 51, tees it up in the 50th edition of the Hong Kong Open alongside Irish aces Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Paul McGinley at Fanling tomorrow.
And after watching Harrington’s impressive wins in The Open and US PGA this summer, he reckons it’s only a matter of time before the Dubliner pulls on the green jacket awarded to the Masters champion.
Read More...
McIlroy continues rankings rise
17/11/08 17:05
The Holywood teenager, 19, jumped 17 places 63rd in the world thanks to his fourth place finish in the Barclays Singapore Open and is now just two places behind his mentor.
If he remains inside top 64 until February 23, McIlroy will tee it up in the Accenture Match Play Championship in Arizona. But he has his sights set on finishing the year inside the world’s top 50 and booking his ticket to Augusta National. Read More...
Irish trio face final Q-School hurdle
17/11/08 16:56
But like Michael Hoey and Mick McGeady, he knows he will have to dig deep to finish in the magical top 30 and ties after the final round of the European Tour Qualifying School.
Tied for 15th with Hoey after a 70, Caldwell got his fifth round off to a rip-roaring start when he birdied the first and then holed out from 108 yards for a spectacular eagle two at the second.
Read More...
Clarke goes belly up
17/11/08 14:54
The Ulsterman, 40, is furious over his lack of success on the greens and plans to spend the next fortnight experimenting with the long putters in the 200-strong collection in his garage.
He groaned: “I'm just fed up struggling with my putting and I'm fed up talking about how bad I'm putting so that's why I'm going to get the belly putter out of storage and give it another go.
Read More...
Q-School: Hoey happy with stress-free start
14/11/08 17:19
The six-round battle to finish in the top-30 and ties is widely regarded as one of the toughest weeks in golf.
But after adding a three-under 69 to his opening 68, Hoey is delighted to be tied for sixth place with compatriot Jonny Caldwell on six-under par.
Read More...
McIlroy targets Masters before millions
14/11/08 16:53
But the Holywood teenager, 19, is more interested in earning a priceless US Masters invite with a top finish in the weather-affected Asian Tour event.
Just two shots behind leaders Ernie Els and Simon Dyson on four-under par after a second round 68, McIlroy said: “It's a fantastic achievement and of course, it's a lot easier than it was a decade ago.
Read More...
Cracking start for Caldwell at Q School
14/11/08 12:09
Walker Cup ace Caldwell only joined the paid ranks when he guaranteed himself Challenge Tour status by coming through Stage Two of the Q-School last Saturday.
But he was totally relaxed on his pro debut as he hit five birdies in a magical eight-hole stretch to open with a fabulous, four-under par 67 in the 108-hole marathon near Girona.
Read More...
McIlroy nears million euro milestone
13/11/08 10:09
But the Holywood idol, 19, is more interested in points than prize money as he continues his meteoric rise up the world rankings.
Up more than 150 spots this year to 80th in the world, McIlroy wants to clinch his place in the exclusive top-50 club by leaving Major winners like Padraig Harrington, Ernie Els and Phil Mickelson trailing in his wake this week. Read More...
Thornton close to tour dream
13/11/08 10:04
The Royal County Down based Yorkshireman, 31, only took up the game in his late teens but today finds himself battling with 155 other hopefuls for just 30 European Tour cards at the Qualifying School Finals in Spain.
It’s been an amazing journey for Thornton, who joined Royal County Down professional Kevan Whiston as an assistant 12 years ago and never looked back.
Read More...
Hand surgery for Keith Nolan
13/11/08 09:50
The Bray man, 35, will undergo surgery for ligament damage to his left hand in Johnson City, Tennessee today.
And that means he will have to wait until next season to chase his PGA Tour card after being forced to skip this year’s PGA Tour Qualifying School.
Read More...
Mickelson admires patient Harrington
11/11/08 10:22
But the sometimes gung-ho left-hander confessed before the $5 million Barclays Singapore Open that he wishes he could grind out the pars like patient Padraig.
Asked what he most admired about Harrington’s game, Mickelson said: “Padraig's strength is definitely his patience and he's strong in the way he's able to play holes patiently and play the golf course patiently. Read More...
Lawrie and Harrington planning ahead
10/11/08 11:46
The Dubliners got off to a solid start in the megabucks Race to Dubai when they tied for 11th place behind new world No 2 Sergio Garcia in the HSBC Champions in Shanghai.
But the former Irish amateur champions can’t wait to start their winter breaks so they can hit even higher notes in the New Year. Read More...
McGinley drought continues in Morocco
09/11/08 11:21
The Dubliner, 41, was bidding to follow in the footsteps of Padraig Harrington, who lifted the jewel encrusted dagger awarded to the winner last year.
But he had to settle for a share of fourth place with Michael Hoey as world No 10 Ernie Els picked up his first win since he lifted the Honda Classic on the PGA Tour in March.
Read More...
Q-School agony for Higgins
09/11/08 11:17
The Kerry ace was battling to join Stage Two qualifiers Simon Thornton and Jonathan Caldwell in the race for 30 cards in this week’s Qualifying School Finals near Barcelona.
But he paid dearly for an untidy closing 75, slipping from a comfortable share of sixth into a seven-way tie for the last of 19 qualifying spots on three under par.
Read More...
Clarke set for rankings charge
05/11/08 15:38
The Ulsterman, 40, tees it up in the HSBC Champions in Shanghai ranked 62nd in the world and guaranteed starts in two of next season’s majors.
But with the Singapore, Australian and South African Opens to come, he plans to book his spot in the Masters and the US PGA by finishing the season back where he believes he belongs. Read More...
McIlroy fails to win Rookie of the Year
05/11/08 15:37
Rory McIlroy came up short as Spain’s Pablo Larrazabal grabbed the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Award.
Winner of the French Open, Larrazabal became the fourth Spaniard to receive the award following José Maria Olazábal in 1986, Sergio Garcia in 1999 and Gonzalo Fernandez-Castaño in 2005. Read More...
Winner of the French Open, Larrazabal became the fourth Spaniard to receive the award following José Maria Olazábal in 1986, Sergio Garcia in 1999 and Gonzalo Fernandez-Castaño in 2005. Read More...
Campbell focussed on card quest
04/11/08 15:53
This time the highly qualified doctor of psychology, 28, is back to his best and physically and mentally ready for the torture of golf’s toughest test. Read More...
McDowell primed for next step
03/11/08 15:57
The Ulsterman, 29, grabbed a share of eighth place in the Volvo Masters to finish the season a career-high fifth in the Order of Merit.
Now he wants to prove he has stepped up to a new level but contending for major honours and helping Paul McGinley to World Cup glory.
Read More...
Karlsson scared of Mrs Harrington
29/10/08 18:07
The Order of Merit leader knows that triple Major winner Harrington can snatch the money title from his grasp in the final edition of the Volvo Masters.
But the giant Swede is even more worried about being jinxed by his pal Harrington’s ever-present wife Caroline.
Read More...
McIlroy bursting with confidence
28/10/08 18:28
The Holywood teenager, 19, tees it up in his first Volvo Masters knowing that a top-three finish will secure his place in two of next year’s Majors and the WGC-CA Championship in Miami.
And he feels that he has the game to pull it off after grabbing his fourth top ten from his last five starts in Castellon last week.
Ranked 35th in the Order of Merit, McIlroy said: “It has been a great last couple of months. I have played really nicely and I will try and keep that up.
Read More...
Glory trumps cash for Harrington
28/10/08 18:20
The Dubliner will claim the Harry Vardon Trophy if he wins the final edition of the €4.25m Volvo Masters at vicious Valderrama.
And while he’s earned close to €30 million (euro) in his career and turned down megabucks contracts from Nike and Callaway to stick with Wilson, titles are all that matter to Ireland’s triple major winner.
Read More...
Harrington is Wilson's $10 million man
22/10/08 23:05
Ireland’s triple Major champion doubled his money when he closed what is believed to be a three-year deal with the global sporting goods brand at Dublin Castle yesterday.
Determined not to break his magic winning formula by putting money ahead of performance, Harrington said: “Obviously, I’m thrilled to sign for Wilson again. I’ve been with them for 10 years and in that time they as a company have improved and my golf certainly has gone forward.
“I was in a very good negotiating position, having won three Majors. I am very happy, which is a good sign. There was competition and figures that were large as well but at the end of the day, a lot of other things come into consideration. Read More...
Clarke has hope for Irish Open
20/10/08 10:05
The early indications are that luxurious Luttrellstown Castle - owned by a consortium of Irish millionaires led by racing tycoon McManus - is available to host the ailing event from 14-17 May.
The five star Dublin venue, where David and Victoria Beckham married in 1999, was bought for an estimated €200 million by the Sloane Capital property group led by McManus, John Magnier and Limerick property mogul Aidan Brooks two years ago.
Read More...
McIlroy breaks into World's top-100
20/10/08 09:10
The Holywood teenager, 19, jumped 11 places to 91st in the latest World Rankings thanks to his fifth top-10 finish of the season in Portugal.
Still seeking his first tour win, McIlroy will make the world's top 50 and earn a place in all next year's Majors if he wins before the end of the year.
Read More...
Harrington has four rivals for Vardon crown
20/10/08 09:08
Padraig Harrington could be battling four rivals for the Order of Merit title in next week’s Volvo Masters
Trailing Robert Karlsson by €297,425, the Dubliner must finish first or second at Valderrama and hope that the Swede finishes outside the top five.
But Harrington could also be fighting off challenges from Lee Westwood, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Henrik Stenson. Read More...
Trailing Robert Karlsson by €297,425, the Dubliner must finish first or second at Valderrama and hope that the Swede finishes outside the top five.
But Harrington could also be fighting off challenges from Lee Westwood, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Henrik Stenson. Read More...
Ireland improve at World Amateur
18/10/08 03:08
Clandeboye's Jonny Caldwell shot three under par 70 and Portstewart's Paul Culter a 72 at Royal Adelaide to move the side up ten places to tied 15th with Japan on one-under par.
But that still left the trio led by non-playing skipper Mick Burns a massive 16 shots behind co-leaders Scotland and the United States.
Read More...
Bad start for Ireland at Eisenhower Trophy
16/10/08 23:06
Ireland's bid for the World Amateur Team title suffered a serious reverse in Adelaide.
Mick Burns' three man squad of Shane Lowry, Johnny Caldwell and Paul Cutler finished the opening day a massive 13 shots behind the United States in a tie for 25th on three-over par.
Read More...
Mick Burns' three man squad of Shane Lowry, Johnny Caldwell and Paul Cutler finished the opening day a massive 13 shots behind the United States in a tie for 25th on three-over par.
Read More...
Harrington shrugs off Grand Slam defeat
16/10/08 23:05
Padraig Harrington took another PGA Grand Slam reverse on the chin and confessed - I’d rather be lucky in Majors.
Beaten in a play-off for the second year running when Jim Furyk eagled the first extra hole in Bermuda, the Dubliner consoled himself by reflecting on his double Major winning season.
Asked what he’d take from the week, Harrington said: “I take from this the fact that I won two majors in the middle of the summer. And if I was to get the right break at the right time, I would rather keep it for those events than this week.
Read More...
Beaten in a play-off for the second year running when Jim Furyk eagled the first extra hole in Bermuda, the Dubliner consoled himself by reflecting on his double Major winning season.
Asked what he’d take from the week, Harrington said: “I take from this the fact that I won two majors in the middle of the summer. And if I was to get the right break at the right time, I would rather keep it for those events than this week.
Read More...
Ireland chasing Eisenhower glory
15/10/08 23:04
Shane Lowry will spearhead Ireland's bid for an amazing amateur golfing hat-trick at the Eisenhower Trophy.
The world No 7 will team up with Clandeboye's Jonny Caldwell and Portstewart’s Paul Cutler in the Men's World Amateur Team Championship in Adelaide today. Read More...
The world No 7 will team up with Clandeboye's Jonny Caldwell and Portstewart’s Paul Cutler in the Men's World Amateur Team Championship in Adelaide today. Read More...
Harrington grabs PGA of America gong
15/10/08 23:02
Padraig Harrington matched Nick Faldo by becoming just the second European to win the prestigious PGA Player of the Year Award.
And he confessed that his incredible run in Majors over the past two seasons has come as a massive surprise.
Harrington said: “To win two Majors in the middle of the summer, back-to-back, it would be an understatement to say it was a bonus. I couldn't have imagined doing it, three majors in the last 15 months.
“If you told me I was going to win and I could go on and win more majors, but to do it so quickly and to do it so close together, to take the opportunity when I got them, that's very special for me. Read More...
And he confessed that his incredible run in Majors over the past two seasons has come as a massive surprise.
Harrington said: “To win two Majors in the middle of the summer, back-to-back, it would be an understatement to say it was a bonus. I couldn't have imagined doing it, three majors in the last 15 months.
“If you told me I was going to win and I could go on and win more majors, but to do it so quickly and to do it so close together, to take the opportunity when I got them, that's very special for me. Read More...
Clarke heading Down Under
14/10/08 23:01
Darren Clarke is heading “Down Under” so he can get back on top in 2009.
The Ulsterman, 40, will return to Australia for the first time in 11 years when he tees it up in the Australian Open at Royal Sydney from December 11-14.
It’s all part of a hectic, end-of-season schedule designed to catapult him into the world’s top 50 by Christmas and into all of next year’s Majors. Read More...
The Ulsterman, 40, will return to Australia for the first time in 11 years when he tees it up in the Australian Open at Royal Sydney from December 11-14.
It’s all part of a hectic, end-of-season schedule designed to catapult him into the world’s top 50 by Christmas and into all of next year’s Majors. Read More...
Harrington dreaming of Masters glory
14/10/08 23:00
Padraig Harrington headed into last night’s PGA Grand Slam of Golf with one eye on next year’s Masters title.
Ireland’s three-time Major winner was on the trail of a pink jacket awarded to the winner in Bermuda, where he took on Trevor Immelman, Retief Goosen and Jim Furyk in the first round of a 36-hole challenge.
But Harrington, 37, confessed that he is already dreaming of victory at Augusta and completing the third leg of the Paddy Slam by pulling on the famous green jacket next April.
Read More...
Ireland’s three-time Major winner was on the trail of a pink jacket awarded to the winner in Bermuda, where he took on Trevor Immelman, Retief Goosen and Jim Furyk in the first round of a 36-hole challenge.
But Harrington, 37, confessed that he is already dreaming of victory at Augusta and completing the third leg of the Paddy Slam by pulling on the famous green jacket next April.
Read More...
Harrington facing Vardon KO
13/10/08 22:59
Padraig Harrington will play the Jolly Green Giant this week as iceman Robert Karlsson bids to leave him out in the cold in the Order of Merit race.
The reigning Open and US PGA champ will tee it up in the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda today on what he has described as a "two-day jolly."
But while Harrington is busy picking up a guaranteed €130,000 in the Grand Slam exhibition match, 6 foot 5 giant Karlsson will be trying to complete a hat-trick of European Tour wins in the Portugal Masters that that could put him €642,425 ahead of the Dubliner and make him odds on to lift the money title for the first time.
Read More...
The reigning Open and US PGA champ will tee it up in the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda today on what he has described as a "two-day jolly."
But while Harrington is busy picking up a guaranteed €130,000 in the Grand Slam exhibition match, 6 foot 5 giant Karlsson will be trying to complete a hat-trick of European Tour wins in the Portugal Masters that that could put him €642,425 ahead of the Dubliner and make him odds on to lift the money title for the first time.
Read More...
Clarke admits his mental frailties
08/10/08 10:27
The Ulsterman, 40, has no problem admitting that he is too much a perfectionist and lacks the mental strength of triple Major winner Harrington.
But he reckons he’s now far less likely to see red on the golf course and believes his new-found patience will pay dividends as he battles his way back to the top of the game.
Read More...
Maguire twins make Vagliano squad
08/10/08 10:23
The Ballyconnell prodigies, who turn 14 on November 30, are joined in the 26-strong squad by Irish team mates Danielle McVeigh, Tara Delaney and Niamh Kitching.
Read More...
Harrington rules out Portugal dash
08/10/08 10:21
Padraig Harrington has ruled out a last gasp dash to Portugal to shadow Robert Karlsson in the Order of Merit title race.
The Dubliner, 37, was knocked off top spot in the money list on Sunday when his Ryder Cup team mate snatched the Dunhill Links title in sudden-death.
But while he’s now €142,425 behind Karlsson in the race for the Harry Vardon Trophy, he won’t be joining the beanpole Swede or third ranked Lee Westwood in next week’s Portugal Masters at Vilamoura. Read More...
The Dubliner, 37, was knocked off top spot in the money list on Sunday when his Ryder Cup team mate snatched the Dunhill Links title in sudden-death.
But while he’s now €142,425 behind Karlsson in the race for the Harry Vardon Trophy, he won’t be joining the beanpole Swede or third ranked Lee Westwood in next week’s Portugal Masters at Vilamoura. Read More...
Irish Open heading for extinction
07/10/08 11:58
Adare Manor boss Tom Kane has lost a massive €2.9 million since he took the plunge and signed a three-year deal to host The Irish Open at the Limerick venue two years ago.
But the former US fighter pilot cannot take another financial hit and has been released from his commitment by the Tour, leaving the event without a home or sponsors.
After underwriting an estimated €10 million in losses over the past six years, European Tour boss George O’Grady won't be left "holding the financial baby" and warned that the Irish Open must now pay its own way or face the consequences.
Read More...
Harrington sets sights on Race to Dubai
07/10/08 10:02
Triple major winner Padraig Harrington wants to become the first man to win the Race to Dubai and earn a possible 4 million pay-day
The Race to Dubai will feature a record 53 events in 26 countries as players battle for possible $5.6m (euro 4m) pay-off at the end of 2009.
And Harrington will be making a special effort to become the inaugural winner and add another trophy to his mantelpiece.
Now trailing Dunhill Links winner Robert Karlsson in this year's Order of Merit race, Harrington said: "I know many of the pros, including myself are looking at our schedules to give ourselves the best chance of going out there and winning that.
Read More...
The Race to Dubai will feature a record 53 events in 26 countries as players battle for possible $5.6m (euro 4m) pay-off at the end of 2009.
And Harrington will be making a special effort to become the inaugural winner and add another trophy to his mantelpiece.
Now trailing Dunhill Links winner Robert Karlsson in this year's Order of Merit race, Harrington said: "I know many of the pros, including myself are looking at our schedules to give ourselves the best chance of going out there and winning that.
Read More...
McIlroy targets 2010 Open at St Andrews
07/10/08 09:05
Holywood hotshot Rory McIlroy has set his sight on Open glory at St Andrews in 2010.
The Ulster teenager, 19, believes he has a great chance of lifting the Claret Jug at the Home of Golf after finishing eighth in the Dunhill Links Championship on Sunday.
Up to 102nd in the world - a rise of 130 places so far this year - he can't wait for the Open to return to St Andrews in 2010. Read More...
The Ulster teenager, 19, believes he has a great chance of lifting the Claret Jug at the Home of Golf after finishing eighth in the Dunhill Links Championship on Sunday.
Up to 102nd in the world - a rise of 130 places so far this year - he can't wait for the Open to return to St Andrews in 2010. Read More...
McIlroy ready to connect missing links
01/10/08 23:59
And while Ulster teenager wasn’t born until 16 years after Charlton’s last game at Old Trafford, he’s learnt enough in his first year as a professional to become a Bobby dazzler this week.
The Holywood hotshot, 19, hit headlines around the world last term when he finished third at St Andrews to secure his tour card in just his second start as a pro.
Now McIlroy looks ready to go one better than his play-off defeat in last month’s European Masters and he can’t wait to lift that maiden title.
Read More...
Els tells Harrington to ride the wave
01/10/08 23:54
Harrington admits that he is finding it difficult to get his head around the fact that he has won three Majors in just over a year.
But Els - a three time Major winner himself - reckons the Dubliner should savour his hot streak while the going's good.
Sidelined in 2005 due to knee surgery and without a Major win since 2002, Els said: "Padraig he's on a great streak now and he's having a great time in his life and he's got things going his way. Read More...
McManus ace of clubs
01/10/08 10:53
JP Manus handed over £1,000 to charity as Padraig Harrington ducked an embarrassing equipment clash at St Andrews.
McManus and Harrington were standing on the 18th tee at the Home of Golf when they were confronted with a Callaway long-driving competition designed to help raise funds for an Ernie Els sponsored autism program. Read More...
McManus and Harrington were standing on the 18th tee at the Home of Golf when they were confronted with a Callaway long-driving competition designed to help raise funds for an Ernie Els sponsored autism program. Read More...
Harrington plans Dunhill killing
01/10/08 00:37
Padraig Harrington is determined to become golf's equivalent of Count Dracula in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and suck the blood out of the Order of Merit title race.
The Open and US PGA champion has had blood tests that confirm that he is physically on the limit after his double Major winning season.
But despite his fatigue and the fact that England's Lee Westwood is breathing down his neck in the race for the European money title, Harrington reckons he can still kill off the opposition at St Andrews, Kingsbarns and Carnoustie before the season-ending Volvo Masters at Valderrama.
Read More...
The Open and US PGA champion has had blood tests that confirm that he is physically on the limit after his double Major winning season.
But despite his fatigue and the fact that England's Lee Westwood is breathing down his neck in the race for the European money title, Harrington reckons he can still kill off the opposition at St Andrews, Kingsbarns and Carnoustie before the season-ending Volvo Masters at Valderrama.
Read More...
Treasure hunt for Harrington and Hoey
30/09/08 11:00
Dubliner Harrington will tee it up in this €3.5 million Alfred Dunhill Links in Scotland bidding to land the title for the third time and kill off rivals in the race for the Order of Merit crown.
Just €228,317 ahead of Ryder Cup team mate Lee Westwood, Harrington will tee up with JP McManus in the pro-celebrity event knowing that victory would make him virtually uncatchable ahead of the season-ending Volvo Masters at Valderrama.
But Hoey will be battling at the other end of the scale as he fights to make the top 20 in the Challenge Tour rankings who will earn tour cards at the end of the season.
Read More...
Smyth ready for American dream finish on Champions Tour
30/09/08 10:57
The Drogheda ace, 55, plans to round off his six-year stint on the US Seniors circuit by rediscovering the form that has helped him win over $4 million.
Barring a miraculous series of results, the eight time European Tour winner will say goodbye to his Champions Tour exemption and switch to the European Seniors Tour next season.
But he has no plans to go quietly and hopes to rediscover his magic touch as he heads Stateside next week to play the last three events of the US season. Read More...
McIlroy game for round with Tiger
25/09/08 14:16
Rory McIlroy has forked out 50 euro to take on Tiger Woods - in the world No 1’s new video game. Read More...
Faldo not to blame say Irish stars
22/09/08 12:25
Nick Faldo is not to blame for Europe's biggest Ryder Cup defeat for 24 years.
Read More...
Read More...
Harrington eager for end to season
22/09/08 12:24
Frustrated Padraig Harrington says he can’t wait for the season to end after another Ryder Cup flop.
Read More...
Read More...
McDowell sees Major silver lining to Ryder Cup cloud
22/09/08 12:20
Graeme McDowell is shooting for Major glory after a brilliant Ryder Cup performance convinced him he can take his game to a new level. Read More...
Harrington saves Faldo's blushes
19/09/08 20:29
Top man Padraig Harrington saved Nick Faldo's blushes to grab a vital half for Europe in a nail-biting opening foursomes. Read More...
Harrington to prove he's The Greatest
18/09/08 20:27
Marked man Padraig Harrington met boxing legend Muhammad Ali on the first fairway at Valhalla yesterday. Read More...
Hapless Hansen suffers identity crisis
18/09/08 20:25
Hapless Dane Soren Hansen has been suffering an identity crisis at the Ryder Cup. Read More...
Harrington is America's most wanted man
17/09/08 20:23
Padraig Harrington knows that he is America's most wanted man this week - but he's not even fazed. Read More...
McDowell eyes Harrington partnership
17/09/08 20:18
Matchplay wizard Graeme McDowell hopes he can get handcuffed to Padraig Harrington for the rest of the Ryder Cup. Read More...
Perry makes a bags of it
17/09/08 20:16
Kenny Perry threatened to dock his caddie's wages after the absent-mind Fred Sander picked up the wrong clubs. Read More...
Azinger fires up home fans
16/09/08 20:15
Fired up US skipper Paul Azinger wants to blow Europe's Ryder Cup battleship out of the water by firing up the home town crowd. Read More...
Monty's parking problems
16/09/08 20:12
Europe's caddies had the Ryder Cup contingent in stitches on the eight-hour Virgin flight from Heathrow to Louisville. Read More...
Harrington is Europe's heavyweight champ
16/09/08 20:11
Louisville might have Muhammad Ali but Europe has its own heavyweight brawler in triple major winner Padraig Harrington.
Read More...
Read More...
Irish spy battle Hurricane Ike
15/09/08 20:09
Irish greenkeeper Paul O'Donoghue battled last night to repair Valhalla from the effects of Hurricane Ike and keep his Ryder Cup dream alive. Read More...
Faldo promises to reveal his hand
15/09/08 20:06
Nick Faldo has revealed that he WILL have several Ryder Cup helpers at Valhalla - but not Paul McGinley. Read More...
McDowell to silence American fans
15/09/08 20:05
Graeme McDowell can't wait to gag the beer-fuelled US fans at Valhalla and continue Ireland's great Ryder Cup tradition. Read More...
Speedy greens the key to US success
12/09/08 19:10
Padraig Harrington believes Valhalla's lightning fast greens will heap more pressure on Nick Faldo to justify wildcards Ian Poulter and Paul Casey. Read More...
Harrington to spank the Yanks
12/09/08 19:09
Padraig Harrington wants to spank the Yanks in their own backyard.
But he doesn't believe his PGA Tour pals will whip up the partisan Kentucky crowd into a frenzy or resort to the tactics that turned Kiawah '93 into The War on the Shore or Brookline '99 into 'The Bear Pit.' Read More...
But he doesn't believe his PGA Tour pals will whip up the partisan Kentucky crowd into a frenzy or resort to the tactics that turned Kiawah '93 into The War on the Shore or Brookline '99 into 'The Bear Pit.' Read More...
McDowell to impress Faldo in Cologne
10/09/08 19:00
Ryder Cup rookie Graeme McDowell wants to ease Nick Faldo’s selection headaches with a storming performance in Germany. Read More...
Rafferty calls for end to Faldo bashing
10/09/08 18:58
Former Ryder Cup star Ronan Rafferty has called for an end to the "whinging" about skipper Nick Faldo. Read More...
McIlroy sets up desert base in Dubai
09/09/08 22:54
The Holywood teenager, 19, is so thirsty for his first tour win that he has decided to set up a permanent base in the mega-rich emirate.
The Ulster hotshot, who is sponsored by hospitality group Jumeirah, wants to take advantage of the Dubai's top class golf facilities. Read More...
McGinley and McDowell bound for Mission Hills World Cup
09/09/08 22:43
With top man Padraig Harrington officially pulling out, McDowell was Ireland's qualifier at 30th in the Official World Golf Rankings.
That earned him the right to choose his partner and 86th ranked McGinley jumped at McDowell's offer to tee it up.
Read More...
Harrington can be Faldo's ace
09/09/08 22:07
Ryder Cup skipper Nick Faldo reckons Padraig Harrington is the ace who could trump the Americans at Valhalla. Read More...
Tired Harrington ready to recharge
08/09/08 23:05
Padraig Harrington shrugged of his FedEx Cup KO by heading home for a Major celebration party. Read More...
McIlroy vows to bounce back
08/09/08 22:42
Rory McIlroy jokingly “punished” himself for his Omega European Masters miss with a two-hour session in the gym. Read More...
Ireland wins first Triple Crown for 18 years
05/09/08 19:15
Ireland thrashed England 10-5 to end a five-year drought in the Home Internationals and an 18-year wait for the Triple Crown. Read More...
Faldo’s head on the block
05/09/08 01:43
Nick Faldo has put his head on the chopping block over his controversial Ryder Cup picks.
Read More...
Read More...
Harrington can fill Ryder Cup void
04/09/08 01:00
Padraig Harrington can save Nick Faldo and fill a massive Ryder Cup black hole as Europe's undisputed No 1. Read More...
McDowell and McGinley set for World Cup
04/09/08 00:53
Paul McGinley and Graeme McDowell look certain to head Ireland's Mission Hills World Cup bid in China. Read More...
McIlroy stronger thanks to struggles
04/09/08 00:52
Rory McIlroy believes that his struggles this season have made him a better player. Read More...
Harrington facing FedEx Cup KO
04/09/08 00:43
Padraig Harrington faces a FedEx Cup KO in St Louis this week. Read More...
Irish Ryder Cup stars disappointed in Faldo
01/09/08 00:39
Ryder Cup veterans Des Smyth and Christy O'Connor Jnr are "surprised" and "disappointed" that Nick Faldo snubbed Darren Clarke for Valhalla wild card. Read More...
Furyk replaces Mickelson in PGA Grand Slam
27/08/08 15:06
Phil Mickelson has turned down the chance to take on Padraig Harrington in October's PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda. Read More...
Woods impressed by Harrington major double
26/08/08 17:50
Tiger Woods has hailed Padraig Harrington “impressive” double major winning form this season. Read More...
Experience the ace in Clarke's sleeve
25/08/08 19:03
Veteran Darren Clarke has urged Ryder Cup skipper Nick Faldo to pick him for his vast experience. Read More...
McGinley happy he resigned Ryder Cup role
25/08/08 18:08
Paul McGinley believes he has justified his decision to resign as one of Nick Faldo’s Ryder Cup vice-captains. Read More...
Faldo's set for flying visit to Scotland
25/08/08 18:07
Ryder Cup skipper Nick Faldo will make a flying 8-hour visit to Gleneagles on Sunday - fuelling speculation that he has already decided his wildcards. Read More...
Bumper year for Irish golf
25/08/08 13:09
Darren Clarke’s amazing KLM Open victory brought Ireland’s victory haul this year to an incredible 13. Read More...
Harrington prepares FedEx knockout punch
19/08/08 21:53
Triple major winner Padraig Harrington wants to do a Kenny Egan and deliver a knockout punch to his rivals in the battle for the PGA Tour money title.
Read More...
Read More...
Harrington battling for multiple US honours
18/08/08 09:10
Padraig Harrington is battling invisible man Tiger Woods to become the first European winner of the PGA Tour's Player of the Year Award. Read More...
Harrington can join all-time greats
11/08/08 12:49
History says that Padraig Harrington could win at least six major titles and join Nick Faldo as the greatest European golfer of all time.
But Harrington while still doesn't believe he is in the same class as idols like Faldo, Ben Hogan or five-time champion Seve Ballesteros, he knows he has the mental resolve to get close. Read More...
But Harrington while still doesn't believe he is in the same class as idols like Faldo, Ben Hogan or five-time champion Seve Ballesteros, he knows he has the mental resolve to get close. Read More...
Torrance tips Harrington for career Grand Slam
11/08/08 12:34
Swing guru Bob Torrance believes Padraig Harrington can complete the career Grand Slam and outgun Tiger Woods down the stretch in a Major. Read More...
Garcia was just a bit player for Harrington
11/08/08 12:28
Sergio Garcia became nothing more than a "bit player" for Padraig Harrington at Oakland Hills. Read More...
Harrington targets Paddy Slam
11/08/08 12:27
Triple major champion Padraig Harrington wants to join Tiger Woods in the history books and complete the "Paddy Slam" next year. Read More...
Azinger fears Faldoesque Harrington
11/08/08 12:23
US Ryder Cup skipper Paul Azinger reckons that triple major champion Padraig Harrington is like a cross between Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods Read More...
Faldo backs Harrington
10/08/08 12:00
Nick Faldo backed Padraig Harrington for future major glory as the Dubliner battled tooth and claw for US PGA glory at Oakland Hills. Read More...
Harrington runs out of steam
08/08/08 11:53
Double Open champion Padraig Harrington suffered a massive Claret Jug hangover at Oakland Hills and headed straight for bed. Read More...
Ryder Cup blow for Clarke
08/08/08 11:52
Darren Clarke suffered a massive blow to his Ryder Cup chances when he crashed out of the US PGA at Valhalla.
Read More...
Read More...
Pain in the grass for McDowell
07/08/08 01:40
Graeme McDowell had a pain in the grass after a first round 74 at Oakland Hills and blasted the tricked up rough as “stupid”. Read More...
Lehman hails Tigeresque Harrington
06/08/08 18:00
Tom Lehman believes that Padraig Harrington's incredible work ethic puts him in the same league at Tiger Woods.
Read More...
Read More...
Oakland Hills made for Harrington
06/08/08 01:38
Graeme McDowell reckons that “tough guy” Padraig Harrington has the short game genius to win at Oakland Hills.
Read More...
Read More...
Darren inspired by Open winner Harrington
06/08/08 01:37
Darren Clarke says that Padraig Harrington’s Open victory has inspired him to work even harder to get back to the top.
Read More...
Read More...
US PGA diary - Wednesday
06/08/08 01:36
Padraig Harrington is all set to buy a private jet worth $25 million. Read More...
Clarke prepares for 40th
05/08/08 13:20
Darren Clarke plans to let his hair down with a massive 40th birthday knees up in Donegal next week. Read More...
Harrington has winning formula
05/08/08 13:19
Souped up Padraig Harrington reckons he has the winning formula to scorch to US PGA glory in Motor City. Read More...
US PGA diary - Tuesday
05/08/08 13:18
Darren Clarke plans to celebrate his 40th birthday next week by going on the beer in Donegal. Read More...
Clarke must slay the Monster
04/08/08 13:16
Darren Clarke has defeated his share of demons in a rollercoaster career. Read More...
Glasson facing competition for Challenge event
04/08/08 13:15
Glasson's Tom Reid wants to host the Challenge of Ireland for the third time on the trot next season. Read More...
Huge boost for Shaw in Glasson
03/08/08 13:09
Ulster rookie Gareth Shaw got a massive confidence boost when he grabbed a share of fourth place in the Challenge of Ireland at Glasson. Read More...
Moriarty makes his move
01/08/08 00:25
Local hero Colm Moriarty fed off his home support to grab a share of second place in the Challenge of Ireland at windlashed Glasson. Read More...