Just what the doctor ordered

THE ability to laugh at himself has always been one of Darren Clarke’s more likeable traits.

It was in evidence again yesterday after his second round 68 in the Smurfit European Open at The K Club. He is now in the thick of the battle for his second title in three years and has no doubt that two people, coach Butch Harmon and “putting doctor” Harold Swash, can take much of the credit for this.

Clarke was recounting how he had tried to contact Harmon by telephone after his opening 67 on Thursday. The subject of his call, however, was in Salt Lake City, Utah, togged out in a skintight lycra suit and about to head off bobsleighing.