McDowell considers the Olympic conundrum after solid start

GRAEME MCDOWELL and Rory McIlroy came through one of the most difficult examinations in major golf with flying colours before being hit by one of the toughest questions an Ulster man can be asked.

McDowell hit 16 greens in regulation when he carded two birdies in an immaculate 70 as McIlroy chipped in with a one under par 71 that promised to be even better after he had raced into the early lead with three birdies in his first six holes.

Both players have high hopes of challenging for the title on Sunday afternoon but as they will represent Ireland under the tricolour in November’s World Cup in China, they were canvassed about the news that golf has been recommended for inclusion in the Olympic Games from 2016.