Lowry looking to build on momentum
The 22-year-old Irishman, who only joined the pro ranks after winning the Irish Open as an amateur last May, produced a seasoned display to claim fourth at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship behind the established trio of Martin Kaymer, Ian Poulter and fellow Irishman Rory McIlroy.
November’s third place at the Dunlop Phoenix in Japan in November still represents his best finish in his eight-month pro career, but last week’s haul of points moved Lowry into the world’s top 100 and certainly proved he has what it takes to challenge for further honours on a regular basis.
“I came out last week with no expectations, but got a bit of confidence early in the week and took it on from there,” Lowry said last night.
“I played well and putted nicely so it was a nice week to start the year.”
Lowry claimed fourth place outright with a 25-foot birdie putt on the final green for a bogey-free 67, although his third round 71 ultimately left him too much to do on the final day.
But with eight of the world’s top 14 on show in Abu Dhabi, Lowry outshone Sergio Garcia and Henrik Stenson, while European number one Lee Westwood failed to make the cut.
Lowry’s rise should not come as a surprise as he followed compatriots Darren Clarke, Pádraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and McIlroy in winning the prestigious Irish Amateur Close Championship in 2007 before retaining the title the following year.
“I don’t need to work on anything. I played well enough to win, but it just didn’t happen for me on Saturday,” he said. “My whole game was good, I just need to keep confidence levels up.”
Lowry will follow up this week’s short trip to Doha Golf Club with appearances in Dubai and India.
“It’s a bit of confidence going into the next three weeks,” he added.
“Hopefully I can keep it up and you never know what can happen.”
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