Graeme’s caddie honoured by peers in China

GRAEME McDowell has been the toast of the European Tour this year, but last night it was the turn of his caddie, Ken Comboy, to take the plaudits.

Comboy was voted ‘Caddie of the Year’ at the now annual function hosted by HSBC in the Le Meridien Hotel which houses competitors in the HSBC Champions event in Shanghai.

Ryder Cup stars from both Europe and the USA were present when Comboy was announced the winner, just ahead of Scotland’s Craig Connolly, who caddies for Martin Kaymer.

Comboy has been caddying full-time for McDowell since mid 2006. In that time, McDowell has captured five tournaments, including this year’s US Open, and played in the past two Ryder Cups - highlighted by holing the winning putt last September at Celtic Manor.

Comboy has also helped McDowell boost his world ranking from 118th in late 2006 to a career high now of No 10.

Comboy was presented with his award by McDowell, who said: “Ken has been huge for my career over these past four-and-a-half years, but then he is more than just a caddie. He is also a great friend, he’s a mediator, he’s a psychologist, he’s a coach, he’s everything.

“He’s been a hugely influential factor in my career over these last four years.

“He is phenomenal under pressure and we saw that clearly at this year’s US Open, and while he is also great in picking me up when I’m down, he’s superb at keeping me level when I need to be level.

“We all like to be recognised among our colleagues and peers, so I am really delighted for him.”