McDowell’s pride at Portrush
The Irish Open 2012 is taking place in Northern Ireland for the first time in sixty years. The event which is being hosted at the Royal Portrush golf course is the biggest event in the history of the European Tour. A crowd of more than 100,000 is expected
in the tournament.
One of the reasons for this tournament being held at the Royal Portrush is Graeme McDowell. In 2010, McDowell was able to sweep a victory at the US Open, which was being held at Pebble beach.
After Fred Daly in 1947, this was the first time someone had won the US Open from this Province.
“It’s a dream come true for me to play a tournament of the magnitude of the Irish Open at Royal Portrush,” said the Irish man.
“Having lived and grown up in Portrush all my life, I’m going to be very proud to welcome The European Tour to my neck of the woods”.
“The Irish Open has always been one that I’ve targeted every year. I’d love to win it. I’d love to compete in front of my home fans and pick up the trophy, but to have that at Royal Portrush is extra special for me and there’s no doubt it will be highlighted
on my schedule,” he added.
As the Irish Open 2012 starts, it is no surprise that national players of Ireland, such as Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell have the biggest galleries. The home crowd is in support of their heroes.
It is like a dream come true for McDowell, to play this tournament in his home town. As he sighted the huge crowd at the Portrush, he was amazed. The moment, in a second filled his chest with pride.
Despite the home crowd advantage, McDowell is not performing as well as he would have expected. The Irishman had a good start, with two birdies in the first four holes. Unfortunately, for him he did not have a good enough end.
McDowell was four-under par till the 16th hole and carded a double bogey on the 17th, as a result he ended his day with one-under par.
McDowell still has a chance to fight back, as he still has the home crowd advantage.
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