McDowell proves he’s the one to watch

Their exploits in the Ryder Cup ensured 2004 will always be remembered as a great year for Padraig Harrington, Darren Clarke and Paul McGinley.

However, there is now a fair argument that Graeme McDowell from Portrush has been the most successful Irish golfer of the season.

The fact that his second place in the Dunhill Links at the weekend has seen him leap to 63rd in the world rankings, having started the season in 234th, underlines the point more than a little forcibly.