Lowry looking to build on momentum

SHANE LOWRY showed he belonged in the professional ranks with an assured display in Abu Dhabi last week and will look to prove he deserves a place in the world’s top 100 at this week’s Qatar Masters.

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.