McGinley humbled by prospect of teeing off Irish Open as Ryder captain

Paul McGinley expects to feel humbled, as well as deeply honoured, when he steps on the first tee of the Irish Open to be introduced as Ireland’s first Ryder Cup captain.

The 46-year-old Dubliner is relishing the opportunity to return to his homeland to compete at Carton House (June 27-30) in a tournament which has been close to his heart since he made his debut as an amateur in 1989.

McGinley, who in January was handed the responsibility of trying to help Europe retain The Ryder Cup at Gleneagles in Scotland next year, cannot wait to join the all-star cast of Major Champions and Tour winners taking part in what he believes has become one of the premiere events on The European Tour Schedule. His inclusion in the 2013 field ensures that the ‘Famous Five’ of Irish golf — Darren Clarke, Pádraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Rory McIlroy and McGinley — will all be on centre stage at Carton House in June.