‘One of the best courses I’ve ever played’

Mark Garrod

The Nissan Irish Open is being staged at Carton House in Co Kildare, which opened only in August 2003 and which Montgomerie admits "can be scary in some weather conditions." With pot bunkers and a links-style lay-out the course set looks to be a stern test even for the cream of European golf.

"I've 155 potential critics, but it has been ranked the number one new course in Europe, never mind just Britain and Ireland, so double bogeys aren't my fault," said the Scot.

"It measures 7,400 yards off the back tees, but we won't be off the back. I've been consulted about the set-up and we're going to have to be very careful about the tee and pin positions.

"It's one of the best courses I've ever played and it's got my name attached to it, so this is a very proud moment for me and it's a perfect reward for my whole team, who have worked tirelessly to create such a fabulous test.

"It perfectly matches my aims of designing a unique championship inland links. I'm so flattered it's been chosen to host this event and it's come very quickly."

Montgomerie admits that whenever he designs a course he has a dozen in play around the world now and another 10 at various stages of either contract or construction he has his own game in mind.

"I think it's inevitable that you tend to think that way," he added. And, of course, he hopes that helps him get onto the leaderboard and stay there.