With the Open championship over for another year, and Darren Clarke safely ensconced back in Northern Ireland with the claret jug, it’s been a shot in the arm for the over forties to see such a homely figure play so steadily to achieve a lifetime’s ambition and then celebrate as only the Irish know how.
A few years ago Darren became a gymaholic and as slim as a whip, highlights in his hair, and the epitome of the modern golfer. His recent return to normality has seen a huge change for the better in his personality and his appeal has broadened as a result.
We can all identify with a man who can certainly play a bit, celebrate a bit, and gains pleasure from a crafty cigarette on alternate tees, but plays with the steadiness that we all aspire to when the chips are down.
A people’s champion if ever I saw one, and very well deserved.
Meanwhile, local golf continues despite the distractions of the television game, and Wrexham hosted the Crowe and Leader Cups competition just over a week ago which featured a win for Stuart James Woolrich with 73 – 12 – 61. Due to the fact that he was not a previous Honours Board winner, he scooped the both trophies despite a good score from Leader runner up Sean Price with 81 – 18 – 63. J Peet was runner up in the Crowe Cup with 78 – 13 – 65.
The Ladies’ Invitation Day was won by Jean Sawford with her partner Sue Goodyer with an excellent 45 points followed by Dorne Tym and Lou Johnson on 44. Third place went to Janet Brand and Helen Pearson with 44 in an event in which twenty nine teams took part.