 Darren Clarke is seeking a first Irish Open victory |
Ryder Cup star Darren Clarke believes he is in the right sort of form to become the first home winner of the Nissan Irish Open for 23 years. No Irishman has lifted the title since John O'Leary's success over the Portmarnock links back in 1982.
But Clarke will tee off at the new Carton House venue as one of the tournament favourites.
"I have been playing all right recently and would dearly love to win here," said Clarke.
"I have been giving myself opportunities to win tournaments - I just have not managed it yet.
"But if I keep knocking on the door I am going to walk through it one of these days.
"Unfortunately I never seem to play well in Irish Open week but hopefully this time is going to be different.
"This course is going to be demanding but I hope to be up to the challenge."
Other Irish stars aiming to win on home soil include Graeme McDowell, Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley.
MMIX
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