6/05/2013

Clarke Tips GMAC US Repeat

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Darren Clarke is tipping his fellow Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell to launch a serious challenge for a second US Open triumph at Merion next week.

Former Open champion Clarke believes the Pennsylvania venue is ideal for McDowell, who won the title at Pebble Beach three years ago.

"With the course being a little bit shorter, it will suit G-Mac down to the ground," said Clarke.

"Merion gives him a fantastic chance to add a second US Open to his CV."

Clarke said McDowell, currently ranked seventh in the world, would be really looking forward to the 13-16 June event, the second major of the season.

"He has won a couple of times this season, at Hilton Head and then in Bulgaria a few weeks ago, so he is obviously playing really well.

"G-Mac can get it out there but he is not one of the big bombers so a shorter course suits him."

Clarke is hoping his own game clicks into place as he aims to make up for missing the Masters because of a hamstring injury.

"I am not competitively sharp, but I am working hard," said Clarke, who last played in the US Open in 2009.

"I am swinging the club well but am just not back into scoring mode.

"The US Open is the toughest test, they do not give you any margin for error at all. With the rough as thick as it is."

Clarke also predicted that world number two and 2011 US Open winner Rory McIlroy would soon be challenging for major honours again after his well-publicised change of sponsor and recent dip in form.

"Changing equipment is always tough, getting used to new clubs and balls," added Clarke.

"But he has so much talent and it will not be long before he is back up there."


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Kevin Phelan Majors in USA

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Kevin Phelan will compete at the US Open next week after securing his place in the major by winning the Sectional qualifying event in Florida.

Rounds of 65 and 70 saw Phelan finish on nine-under at the Ritz-Carlton in Bradenton, one stroke ahead of his closest challenger, American John Hahn.

“Patience really helped me today,” a delighted Phelan, who relocated to the United States with his family from Waterford a decade ago, told golfweek.com.

“It’s a tough finish; it’s easy to make bogeys coming in. (You) just have to stay patient.”

Phelan’s triumph at the Ritz-Carlton came on the back of disappointment. His collegiate career came to an end last week, when his North Florida missed out on securing match-play action at the NCAA Championship.

“It was definitely extremely disappointing to miss out on match play; we played really well all year,” said Phelan, who has a year left to complete in his psychology degree.

“It was a great atmosphere for the team. (But) we learn from the bad moments. We learn from the triumphs. You learn from everything.”

The 22-year-old has featured at the US Open previously, back in 2010. However, rounds of 83 and 75 saw him miss the cut.


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