Moment Portrush knew title was in bag

MOST golf fans watching Darren Clarke tiptoe his way to the British Open were not convinced he could do it until Dustin Johnson’s out of bounds shot on the 14th hole.

But for the members of Clarke’slocal club, Royal Portrush, they knew a lot earlier.

Keen followers of their fabledmember had harboured doubts as Phil Mickelson charged through the front nine — until they saw their hero’scalmness between the 11th and 12th holes.

“Darren kept it together throughout the round and was his usual friendly self,” said John Bamber, former captain of Royal Portrush.

“At one point between the 11th and 12th holes he gave a golf ball to our captain Phillip Tweedy’s son.

“It was a great moment for everyone in the club and we knew he was in a great frame of mind.

“We had some American andSpanish visitors and our members as well and they all had a nice afternoon but I can tell you, anyone who was there has no fingernails left.

“It was all very quiet when Phil Mickelson made that charge on the front nine.”

Bamber said the win in Sandwich would complete Clarke’s CV — but he doesn’t think it will end his ambition to win more majors.

“We’re absolutely delighted. We came here today dreaming it might happen but for it to actually happen to him now is great.

“He has been a great ambassador for the club and this eclipses the other Northern Irish wins.

“He was always regarded as one of the most talented amateurs ever to come out of our lot. He will probably think he can actually win a few more now.”

For now though, the club is busy planning today’s homecoming.

Yesterday they were swamped with calls from all over the world andministers from the Northern Ireland assembly had been in meetings with manager Wilma Erskine to ensure the celebrations go off without a hitch.

“It’s been a busy morning. Darren enjoys the social side of all parties and he’ll be made most welcome when he arrives. We’re all really looking forward to it.

“His sons, Tyrone and Conor, watched it at home and in a local hotel and they are great participants in our junior programme here. It was a great experience for them and they’llremember it forever.

“We’re all very proud of him and he’s put a smile on everyone’s face here and most people from the world of golf.”