Harrington named European Golfer of the Month

Padraig Harrington, who hopes at the Masters this week to make it an April to remember, was today named the European tour’s Golfer of the Month for March.

Despite Ernie Els capturing the Dubai Desert Classic with a closing eagle and the Qatar Masters seven days later with a best-of-the-week closing 65, Harrington’s first US Tour victory earned him the award.

The Dubliner birdied 10 of his first 13 holes en route to a course record-equalling 63 in the final round of the Honda Classic in Florida, then beat current world number one Vijay Singh and Joe Ogilvie in a play-off.

“Obviously it’s a great honour,” said Harrington. “It was a great thrill to win and enjoy the rewards of all the hard work I’ve put in. It underlined the benefits of perseverance.”