SHORT GAME MASTERCLASS

Those in the know about these things have always marvelled at Shane Lowry’s short game. Few players look so natural with a wedge in hand, and the freedom and fluidity with which he wields it make him the envy of many of his peers. On a brutal final day at Royal Portrush, it was his short game that kept the chasing pack at bay. The question is, how did he develop such an outstanding touch around the greens?

“I grew up playing golf on a course called Esker Hills in the middle of Ireland – it’s not that well-known,” Lowry told us.