Shane Lowry claims Irish Open tougher than any other

A lot has happened to Shane Lowry since he won his national title as an amateur in 2009, yet adding an Irish Open victory as a professional is very much a serious goal for the world number 35.

So much so that, as the Offaly golfer and reigning WGC-Bridgestone Invitational champion continued his preparations for this week’s renewal at the K Club, he admitted he had, in recent years, been trying too hard at a tournament which carries so many more demands for Irish golfers than other regular season European Tour events.

Considering his world ranking has been improving annually since he turned professional following his Irish Open win at Baltray seven years ago, his results in this tournament have been less consistent. A tie for fifth at Carton House in 2013 represents his best Irish Open finish as a pro.