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Hi Darren good luck for the new season I've saw you very regular at the Royal practicing.You really put a lot of hard work in. Good luck again Ashley
Thanks Ashley, am hoping that all the hard work will pay off now that I'm injury free and raring to go! Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren Totally gutted you where not at The Masters but hope the rest and recovery is going well. Look forward to seeing you back on the Links soon (and winning !!!) Good luck for the rest of the season Best Wishes Mark
Thanks Mark, making progress, albeit slower than I would have wished!! Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, finally found the time reading your 2 books. I really enjoyed reading them. It's good to see that despite the newer generations affected by new gimmicks (not always their fault) you are thinking highly about respect and loyalty. I hope my kids understand this one day too. Hope to see you at the KLM Open this year and wish you a quick recovery.
Hi Henri, really pleased you enjoyed the books and that I got my views over well. Still on the mend and am looking forward to the KLM. All the best, Darren.
Dear Darren, sorry your not fit enough to play in the Masters, come back stronger and fitter, and win everthing else, and don't get down, wish you well, ps at least you're in the sunshine, it's cold here, all the best mark white.
Cheers Mark, message much appreciated. Darren.
Sorry you can't make the Masters, always enjoyed watching you. You're a class dude, heal quickly, the game needs men of character and class...get back soon!
Thanks a lot Patrick, much appreciated. Darren
Hi Darren. My name is Palmi and I´m a firefighter from Iceland. I´m going to compete in the world police and fire games which will be held in Belfast in august 2013. I was just wondering about the courses, Belvoir, Malone and Shandon. Which is the best, your opinion? Because I really want to play a practice round but I can´t afford to play them all. Best regards Palmi Hlodversson
Hi Palmi, I reckon that the one you should practice at is Malone which I think is the best of the three. I wish you the best of luck and hope you do well in the competition. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I hope you have a very successful 2013 and maybe another Open Championship??? Just Like to say how good your book is. I got it for Christmas and haven't put it down, Kind Regards Connor
Hi Connor, Happy New Year and thanks for the message - would certainly be good to add a second Open Championship to the list! Glad you're enjoying the book. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, just to wish you and your family, a wonderful christmas, and a happy new year, i hope 2013 brings you more success and happiness, hope to see you at wentworth in may. all the best mark white.
Cheers Mark and all the best to you and your family. Darren.
Hi Darren,when do you start to plan your schedule for next year and does the majors events and WGC have an influence on your planning,hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2013. Yours, Michael,Dundee
Hi Michael, the schedule is already in the planning stages! At the moment with my two boys still at school it very much revolves around their school holidays etc, but the majors and WGC's are taken into consideration as well. Have a great Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I just want to say thanks so much for the book signing at the weekend in Eason's Dublin, I am a huge huge fan and you really went all out to meet and greet each and every person in the queue, I was lucky enough to grab a sneaky kiss on the cheek, apologies but you and the crowd took it very well ha ha. I wish you all the best with the new book and for the future and I look forward to reading your book over the Christmas period. Best regards, Shirley Byrne
Hi Shirley Anne, I really enjoyed the signing at Easons and it was fantastic that so many of you turned up! Hope you enjoy the book. All the best, Darren.
Hi darren,I just bought my boyfriend ur book 4 Xmas I no he will love it as he's a big fan of ur's,just seen that u r sighing ur books in London was just wondering if u were doing anymore in or around Ballymena, Portrush area would really love it sighed thanks
Hi Jillian, will be signing in Coleraine on 19th December at 1.00pm, keep an eye on the website for more details. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I really just want to know if you are still coming down under to Coolum, Australia and bringing your regular caddie Phil Morbey? Reason I ask is if you are coming with Phil I will be coming to support you both. Cheers Ash
Hi Ash, am definitely coming back to Coolum and bringing Phil too! All the best, Darren.
hello i would like to know where you have bought your so nice blue tartan trouser
Hi Pierre, they are IJP Design and are the work of a certain Ian Poulter!! They are available from www.ijpdesign.com and there's loads to choose from! Happy shopping, Darren.
Hi Darren, that was a great comeback and im so glad that you won. I hear you are the top contender for the job at Gleneagles.. Is that true. I would love to see you as captain!!!!
Hi Jake, it certainly was a great comeback!! I have not been offered the Ryder Cup captaincy in Scotland. This is decided by the committee in January 2013 and it would be a huge honour if I was asked. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren....amazing win and comeback....shows the team that plays together comes out on top...
It certainly was - it was a great team effort! Cheers, Darren.
Hello Darren. Just wanted to pass on my congratulations to our victorious European Ryder Cup Team. To win after an amazing comeback. Shows great character, belief and has thrilled many thousand of fans. I hope you can take some of the thrill and confidence in to the rest of the season and any tournaments you are participating in, Fantastic. Helen W. Wirral
Many thanks Helen, an unbelievable week at Medinah and certainly inspirational! All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren, just watched the americans go into a 5-3 lead after the second session. i would be thinking now that they cannot play like that again tomorrow and it will be the europeans that dominate the saturday sessions. What will be the message in the european dressing room after today.
Hi John, you were right! The message got through loud and clear and we brought the Ryder cup back to Europe. They were all fantastic! Cheers, Darren.
Darren, What key would you relate to someone fighting a little sloppy wrists at the top of the swing, no pause, then lack of lower body clearing of the hips-all arms, no full and complete release. In other workds, when to stop the backswing then get right hip (right-handed player) turning to target? Any swingthoughts for this or keys? Thank you. John Muto,Jr.
Hi John, I think a good swing thought is to have a strong core feeling on the backswing and try to feel as though you are not cocking your wrists, this will stop the looseness. As regards to the right hip movement maybe try getting the weight off your right leg as early as you can on the downswing. A good practice drill is to stand on the range and hit three quarter shots with your feet together and this should promote the correct body feeling. Good luck, Darren.
Hi Darren, great to see that you raised a significant amount of money for yours and beefy's foundation. the venue I see was archerfield golf course, I played that recently and found it very difficult (hcap 8). how would you rate the difficulty of this course in relation to ones that you play.
Hi John, it was a great couple of days and we certainly raised an astonishing amount for the foundations. It depends which course you played but I think the Dirleton course is the tougher one of the two, however if a European Tour event was to be held there I would envisage the winning score on both courses to be around twenty under par. This would be mainly due to the fact that all the par fives are reachable in two for professionals unless the weather played a big part. Cheers, Darren.
Darren, My father and I have always wanted to take a trip from here in the USA to Ireland for a golf trip. I know that we want to play Royal County Down, Old Head, Ballybunion, Royal Belfast, etc. Are there any other courses that you would recommend. It will be a group of 8 and we all are scratch or near scratch golfers. We want scenic, scenic, scenic with tough golf and windy weather.
Hi Bruce, well you're most certainly coming to the right place for some exciting conditions! To add to that list would definitely be my home course at Royal Portrush which is totally stunning and a great test. Also Portmarnock, the K Club where the Ryder Cup was held, and Baltray which can also throw up some tough conditions! I hope you have a great trip. All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren Have a great four days at Lytham and whatever happens it won't top last year unless you win again. Either way I'll be cracking open a quality red and smoking a nice Hoya on Sunday to either celebrate another DC win or as a celebration for your past year as champion golfer of the year... Best wishes Mark Freeman
Hi Darren, delighted Irish Open went well you did a sterling job promoting it and it was a great ocassion. Thanks also for the photo on Tuesday really appreciated it. Wishing you all the best in the defence of the Claret Jug. Here's hoping the putts drop like last year. Simon
Thanks Simon, the Irish Open was certainly something to be proud of and it was a fantastic week. Am now looking forward to defending at Royal Lytham and thanks for your good wishes. All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren, Do think you can re-kindle your form as it has dropped after winning the Open? Also have you still got the drive, passion, drive and will to win on the pro tour as winning a Major must take alot out of you. Just a left field question as we all know your a great player but i guess you need to be 100% committed on the pro tour with so many great players. Cheers Ash
Hi Ashley, I definitely think I can re-kindle the form as I feel I am hitting the ball right now just as good as I have ever done. However, winning the Open Championship was the peak of my career and has raised my expectations of myself to a much higher level. I have probably put too much pressure on myself thinking a can re-kindle that form every single week, which as a golfer, you know is not possible. I am 100% committed to winning more tournaments and competing at the highest level. All the best, Darren.
No questions Darren - pleased to see you have found happiness again and the beach wedding looked so romantic. My very best wishes to you both. Robyn
Darren I saw a special on Arnold Palmer a few years ago and it reported that over his playing career he used over 20000 clubs and that they are all on display at the Arnold Palmer Museum. I have no where near that number but in the short time that I have seriously been playing this game I have collected enough to make up probably 5 sets. My question is. How do you know when to discard one club to take up a new one. I recently purchased a putter and used it once and putted really well with it. However I have always putted extremely well with the one I have had for last 4 years. Should I change or keep with the trusted one.
Hi David, simple - keep both the old one and the new one! Some times you just get a 'feeling' on picking up a new club which makes you use it and use it well. Of course these 'feelings' can change so it's always good to have a back up that you're happy with as well. Hope they keep going in for you! Cheers, Darren.
hi Darren congratulations on your best prize in years i hope you both are very happy for a very long time. you all make a lovely family best wishes
Hi Darren, Just wanted to say Congratulations! First a British Open win, now married. Glad to see you so happy now. May you continue that way for the rest of your days!!!
Hi Darren Just to say Congratulations to you an Alison !!! May you both have the very best of health and happiness for a very very long time.. Best Wishes Mark Freeman PS...Shorts to get married in Darren - Brilliant. Can see that becoming the way forward...
My 15 year old is mad about Golf......He plays and trains every free minute he has....How would you advise him to enable him to move up to the next level ? He is currently off 10 having been off 20 this time last year. Thanks Gerry
Hi Gerry, great to hear that your son is doing so well and has made great progress thus far. To get to the next level it may be wise to get a good coach for him who will keep him on the straight and narrow. Also the best way to get him down to single figures is to get him practising his short game from 100 yards and in - this will make a massive difference to his scores and being tight in this area is a must. Wish him all the best from me. Darren.
Hi Darren-- Just a quick note to thank you for the fishing tips and flies in Abaco on Sunday. I went to the spot you recommended the next day and caught two Bonefish and a little Permit! There is no bigger thrill for me than catching a bonefish. What a blast. Many thanks... Dan
Hi Dan, that's excellent news - you must have had a great day! Well caught, Darren.
darren, well done on the open, good luck with the new season, hope to be at wentworth for the bmw event, all the best. mark white.
Thanks Mark, looking forward to it and thanks for your support as always. Cheers, Darren.
A few years ago I saw you at Royal Sydney and enjoyed seeing you hit balls from the corner of the range. Do you have any plans to return to Sydney in the near future to play ? Cheers
Hi Henry, no plans at the moment but definitely would love to return there some day. Cheers, Darren.
I have your book "Golf-The Mind Factor", which I find very useful. I read that you have started an exercise & weight loss programme, presumably under professional guidance. Are you thinking of producing a book? I for one would buy it.
Hi Eamon, glad you like the book and yes, there is a new one in the pipeline at the moment that will be out later on this year. My fitness regime is going great under the watchful eye of Jonny Bloomfield and we're making some fantastic progress. All the best, Darren.
Looking forward to seeing you at the Match Play this week, best wishes and also for the rest of the year. Love Portrush, been the past 2 years. Do you ever play Ballybunion, we have a vacation home there off Sandhill Rd. Whats your favorite Irish course, Portrush not included.
Hi Ron, I'm really lookng forward to this week - a course I've not played before and it looks fantastic. I guess Royal County Down would be my second favourite to Portrush! Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren I have a reverse grip and have tried to change it and even tried left hand clubs, have had lessons and all but could not change. Club pros have said it is common enough and it works quiet well for me and I think so too but always get the remarks, what is your opion? Well done last year mate, I am a Galway man living in Australia for last few years and made me proud. Thanks for that and all the best for this season. Keep smiling Brendan
Hi Brendan, stick with what works for you and just ignore the comments - if it's not broken don't fix it! All the best, Darren.
I was watching you on the practice tee at The Links at Fancourt. Very interested in the "gizmo" you were using - attaches to your ears and chin. Is this a personalized aid? Where would I get one. You were hitting the ball really great!
Hi Peter, the device is called Chinrite and is available from www.chinrite.com - it's a great little thing! Cheers, Darren.
Darren, I want to thank you for making my 9-year old son Adam's day by throwing him your ball after birdieing the 12th in the second round of the Open. He was also made up when, for his Christmas present, I had the ball mounted with an engraving about how the ball heped you win the Claret Jug. Good luck for 2012, particularly defending your title at Royal Lytham!
Hi Paul, well I'm glad it went to a good home! All the best for 2012 to you and your family. Cheers, Darren.
HI Darren not great at this but just want to say i hope you have a great 2012.You are an inspiration looking forward to watching you win more this year and i hope its the one in PORTRUSH GOOD LUCK.
Thanks Rusty, much appreciated and all the best for 2012. A win a Portrush would definitely be fantastic! Cheers, Darren.
Mr Clarke - just a note to say delighted you are returning to the Shell Houston Open this year as I will be able to watch you play. I am from NI but have lived in Houston since 04 and have watched you when you have played here. Anyway - good luck, I find the course a bit hard myself! Peter
Hi Peter, thanks for the message and I'm really looking forward to being there this year - it's a great place that I've always enjoyed. Happy New Year, Darren.
Hi Darren, what a year 2011 was for you, brilliant! I hope that 2012 will be exactly the same for you, Alison and the boys. You deserve your new title OBE not just for your golfing, but for the wonderful charity work you do for others. I sincerely hope you continue to play brilliant golf and you have even more success in 2012. Anne
Hi Anne, thanks very much for the message - it's great to have so many people out there supporting me. 2011 certainly was a great year! All the best for 2012, Darren.
Hello darren all the best for 2012 after a fantastic 2011 i voted for you on sports personality award not only for your fantastic open win but also your fantastic work towards various charitys keep up the good work and take care.....
Thanks very much for the support Christopher, much appreciated. Happy New Year, Darren.
Hi Darren, Happy New Year to you, Alison, Tyrone and Connor and all your family. What a year it has been for you the Open Championship win, runner up on Sports Personality of the Year (yes I did vote for you) and now to have been awarded an OBE in the New Years Honours. Whow, here's to a successful and happy 2012. Helen
Many thanks Helen, it certainly was a great year and to be honoured like that is just fantastic. Happy New Year, Darren.
Hello Darren, Thank you for making 2011 such a memorable year in golf. Your Open championship was the most emotional, exciting and thrilling I have ever watched. I am so pleased of your second place at the Sports Personality of the Year 2011. It is well deserved and is a tribute to such a lovely man who has worked so hard in the Golf world. As a player which you continue to do and as an example to young golfers who are being nurtured at your Golf School in Northern Ireland. I can tell that Tyrone and Conor were thrilled to see their Dad pick up second place. They looked so grown up in their suits. You realise how far they have come. I loved Conor on the tv monitor. He has your sense of humour. Have a Merry Christmas with Alison, the boys and your family. And here is to 2012 and see if you can raise you golf ranking, and have a good run in tournaments. You never know you could end up with the Claret Jug at Royal Lytham. Now that would be a great dream. Helen Wimpenny
Hi Helen, many thanks for those kind words and hope you have a fantastic Christmas and New Year. I shall definitely be looking forward to defending at Royal Lytham & St Annes next July. All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren On behalf of “Big D” fans across the world can I just thank you for 2011 !! For me its one I will never forget – From caddying for you at The Welsh Open pro-am at Celtic Manor to then being at Royal St Georges for the week to see you lift the Claret Jug (and me collecting a nice little 150/1 winning bet !!!) is something that will live with me forever. All your fans look forward to seeing you back out on the links in 2012 and wish you and your family a fantastic Xmas and New Year and continued success and happiness in 2012 and beyond. Best wishes Mark Freeman
Thanks for that Mark! It certainly has been the most memorable of years. Have a fantastic Christmas and New Year and hope you haven't spent all your winnings yet! Darren.
Hi Darren, I have got a real dilemma, i do not know whether to buy the R11 driver or the burner superfast 2.0 driver, i have looked on youtube at the R11 reviews and the burner reviews but the reviews all seem to be as good as each other! In the end i decided to ask the best ever golfer!!! Could you help at all? Many thanks, Ben Morris
Hi Ben, there's only one sure fire way of sorting out your problem and that is to test them both on the range. This is the only way that you can tell what's right for you. They are both excellent so go have a play about with them and then make your choice! All the best for Christmas and 2012. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren , you have become a real inspiration for me after watching you play at The Open this year , well done you deserve it but i wonder being an amateur at a mere snip of 42 years old ! how far do you think i could go in a golfing career ? or do you feel this age is too way to late to start out ? Best of luck for the future i will looking forward to watching you next year . Paul Duval
Hi Paul, thanks for the message and believe me it's never too late if you have burning desire and a bit of talent helps as well! Obviously you need to have some time on your hands so you can get out there to play and practice. You just have to see the standard on the professional circuits, which is fantastic, to see the level of where you need to get to. Hey and with a surname like Duval you've definitely got a good start! Wishing you all the best, Darren.
I wanted to offer my congratulations on your Open win in Sandwich. Being a local I came to watch on a couple of days, one being the practice day on Wednesday. I saw you in the members enclosure and plucked up the courage to ask you for a photo, which you duly oblliged, and for me I have the best photo of my life. I want to thank you for taking the time out of what was a busy day to pose for this photo. I wish you all the best for rest of the year. Diedre Hogwood
Hi Diedre, thanks for the message and glad you got your pic - it certainly was a week to remember! All the best, Darren.
I am watching this tournament in China and one of the commentators said that you had been practicing a lot with the aid of something that you put on your wrist to keep you in the right plane. Please tell me what it is since I seem to have various planes which seem to take me to various places all over the golf course. Where can I get one of these things to help me go where I want, (on the course of course). Robin Greer
Hi Robin, the item in question is called a "Tac Tic" and is available from UK based website called www.perfectmygolf.com - hope it goes well for you. Cheers, Darren.
Huge congrats on your performance over the past year Darren. Although you didn't make it to the top in bermuda you can be sure us Irish were standing proud and rooting for you. FANTASTIC to see you here and enjoying yourself. Best, A Wee Irish family in Bda
Hi Yvonne, thanks so much for the message. We had a great time in Bermuda - the golf wasn't what I was hoping for but the place and hospitality were brilliant and hopefully we'll be back! Cheers, Darren.
Not a question but I just watched your appearance on Feherty. I have to say as much as I appreciated you before your British Open win, I now have a greater appreciation of you as a human being. I am a few years older than you and I admire your demeanor and your values. Keep true to yourself as the secret to life is the journey, not the destination. You are the prime example of this. I remember seeing you at the 2000 US Open at Pebble Beach. You were gracious and friendly, someone I feel close to without really knowing you. Please stay true to yourself. Regards, Dan Huddleston
Thanks Dan, much appreciated and I've no intention of changing!! Cheers, Darren.
Many congrats Darren on the recent Open win. As an Irish man living in Bermuda for the last number of years, I'm really looking forward in getting the chance to see you play Port Royal. Wonderful course and I'm sure you will enjoy your few days here on the rock.
Thanks for the congrats and I'm certainly looking forward to my trip to Bermuda as the winner of the Open! All the best, Darren.
Mr. Clarke: Not a question actually, just congratulations on your Open Championship. While I'm an American I was pulling for you. You seem to be a gentleman who enjoys life and your friends and faces life and it's challenges while keeping yourself grounded and doesn't try to be anything you're not. I'm in the draw for tickets to the 2012 Ryder Cup and if I'm fortunate enough to get tickets I hope to see you play at Medinah. It would be a pleasure to meet you. I'll be the old white-haired fart. While I'll be pulling for the USA to win the Cup, I'll be proud to watch you win yours. You seem to be a real person much as Mr. Palmer does and one who values the fans and their appreciation for what you do. Best of luck in the future. Russell Lee USA
Russell, many thanks for your very kind message. I appreciate all my fans across the world and have always had fantastic support when I'm in your neck of the woods and I'm looking forward to playing a few more events over there in the coming years and I certainly would love to be in Medinah and hope you get lucky in the draw. There's nothing wrong with a few grey hairs - I'm sporting some myself these days!!! Thanks again, Darren.
What a true champion, congratulations. I loved your interview on Feherty last evening. I was wondering what number is on your Taylormade Penta and why? Thanks again and best of luck.
Hi Daniel, it certainly was fun doing the thing with Feherty! I've got the number 140 on my TaylorMade Penta - and that signifies the 140th Open Championship! Cheers, Darren.
Congratulations Darren for your winning in the BO I admire your game I like your good temper always you are a great player The frog
Heartfeld congrats on your Open Championship. We played together in this year's Qatar Masters Pro Am and, though playing quite poorly, I had the best time I've ever experienced on the course. All the best in the future to you and the family.
Congrats on the triumph in the Open Championship. Look forward to you visiting us over here in the states. I live near Akron, site of the WGC in two weeks. Oh yeah, I would be the target of my paternal grandfather if I didn't wish you good luck at Kilarney this week.
Congratulations on winning the Open! Thanks, also, for supporting the Irish Open. The same goes to Gmac & Rory!! Well Done.
Hello Darren, CONGRATULATIONS for your very big courses to the BRITISH OPEN. Sorry for my english !!!! I've discovered the golf there're 10 years a go.I follow you to PARIS at the TROPHEE LANCOME and since that i love this sport.I went in IRELAND played golf with 3 friends for my birthday It was fantastic. Thank your for your simplicity and the pleasure you offer to me. Good luck for this years , I hope you will be NUMBER ONE on the europeen tour !!!and NUMBER ONE at the order of merit of the world. BYE
We followed you at Troon in '97 and loved (sadly) your "would have been a lot of sore heads across the Firth" remark when you earned T2 and they gave you the microphone before J. Leonard--Fourteen years later we imagine it had to hurt a bunch, but in such a good way? Slainte, Darren, and a thousands congrats from your fans in the States. Fourteen years was worth the wait (and the sorer heads).
Congratulations Mr Clarke. Makes me proud to come from this pokey wee country and to see a man from home who knows where is real priorities lie, and despite position in the public eye still puts family and kids first - enjoy it. Donal
Darren best of luck in kilarney this week should be a good week with all the Irish fans waiting to see you
Hi Darren, Congratulations for a quite magnificent win last week. Good luck in the PGA. Also a big hello to Tyrone and Connor, from Simon and Katie Gedye.
Hi Darren Our most sincere congratulations on your Open win & all the very best for the future now that you are back where you belong competing in all the Majors! We have just got back to Australia after the most fantastic & memorable of holidays, with the highlight of course being the 4 days following you around the St Georges links. Looking forward to next year already. Cheers Michael & Bronwen Anderson
Hi Darren. Just want to wish you well for the Irish Open 2011. Enjoy it. Do your best. Helen. Wirral
Thanks Helen, am looking forward t it. Cheers, Darren.
I am so pleased for you and those around you. Success is well deserved and couldn't go to a nicer person. Winners seem to get the opportunity to deliver their swing mechanics through magazines and dvd. I hope that you will be given the opportunity to show us how to play in bad conditions. You gave a masterclass of clear thinking and cool strategy. There is a gap in the market for this and I hope you grab it. Best of luck to you and the foundation. :-)
We are so happy that you won the Open Championship. . Congratulations on your great victory. Ronald & Michelle Donett
It's great to see a guy with a gut win a major over all of these flat bellys. Congratulations Darren! I won our Open golf pool by selecting you as the 5th member of my 6 man team. You might wonder why I waited 5 rounds to select you. I'm wondering why it took you so long to win a major as you've always been one on the most talented & durable players in the world.
Well done Darren! Watched you on the practice area at Castle Stuart having a laugh with Lee W & it was obvious you were going to win the Open (easy to say after the event). All the members at Arbroath Artisan were feeling a little jaded on Monday - I can't think why? Keep putting in the hard work on (and off) the course!
Well done Darren, I believe you to be a great ambassador for the game and life, best wishes to you, your children and future wife.
Made my year, never mind my day to see you prevail on Sunday. Absolutely fantastic that such a genuine, decent and thoroughly likeable bloke finally picked up the claret jug. It couldn't have been won by a nicer guy, period!
Hey Darren, what can we say? Finally? At last you got the finger out and brought one home for Tyrone! (the cub and our county). Don't leave it so long to the next one. We were up in the wee hours here in Hawaii watching it, in tears on Sat and again on Sun wishing we were there. Been a long time since I saw you at Killymoon, then at Bay Hill, and have been a fan of yours since over 20 years. All the very best to you and the family and a big mahalo from your Hawaii fan club.
Hi Darren. I am Irish living in USA for past 25 years and I thrive on the success of Irish sports personalities. I have been following yourself, Padraig, Graeme, Rory and other golfers on the tours and in the Ryder Cup for years. Your success at Sandwich brought a tear to my eye and your post tournament interviews were superb. Loved the pint of blackstuff!! Go on ya boy ya!!! Much more success to you.
CONGRATS and well played Darren. I had a pint for you Sunday night. You have been one of my favorites for years. I remember seeing you and your caddie having dinner with Lee and his caddie near Akron during the WGC Firestone event a few years ago. We bought you all a round and you bought us back. Thanks! I thought your thank you speech was excellent after the Open.
Congratulations BRITISH OPEN CHAMPION!! So enjoyed all the action over the weekend with the luxury of it being 10mins from home in our Kentish backyard. However enjoyed even more your win. It has kept me smiling all week and have to say I did shed a tear or two!! Enjoy the success and the celebrations that come with it!! Can't think of anyone who deserves it more.... Karen Weatherley x
Darren: I live in California, and have always considered you one of my favorities. I had tears in my eyes as you played the last couple of holes in the Open. I told my wife; "My God, he's going to win." I have never been happier to see someone win a golf tournament. I think the whole world was pulling for you. Your victory is one for the ages. And it will be talked about for a long, long time. George Conant
HI Darren We came down an watched you play Friday and thought then how well you were playing. In the final round you looked so calm and played so well, you made it look easy !! also during your winners speach. Congratulations on your fantastic win. I am sure you family could not be prouder. I am not Irish but being born on St Patricks day has always brought me closer to everrything Irish (Including the Guiness) and I always mark my ball with green shamrock) Best wishes for the remainder of the year, now reason why you should not win again. Steve Cording (Somerset England)
Hey Darren, Firstly well done and congratualtions on your win at the Open last week. If anyone deserves the big one its you. Once you won, I cracked open a Guiness and lit up a big cigar. Good luck for the rest of the year and hopefully you will have more silver in the cabnet.
Darren Been following you for the past few years. Was really pulling for you at the Open and was delighted to see you get the win. I am in Palm Desert CA in the winter. Always have a slot open for you to come enjoy some golf in the warm weather. Drop me an email if you ever want to take me up on the offer.
Darren: Congrats on the Open Championship. You are a deserving champion. I was out of Guinness so I had a Bud Light Sunday night in the states. Ben Setterlund Minneapolis, MN USA
Congratulations, Darren, on your well deserved win at the week-end. We are all proud of you at Donegal Golf Club. The best of luck in the future. Hope to see you in Donegal again real soon. Regards. Michael.
Hello Darren, no question, just want to congratulate you for your victory at the "British Open". Good luck and God Bless! Michael Lunny
Congrats from all of us Wake Forest fans. I've been a golf course shaper for 25 years and am proud of your victory, and our industry. Good luck moving forward. Gene Daniel, Clinton NC
no question...BEST OPEN IN YEARS! CONGRATS DARREN!!! This was a long time coming. Congratulations also on your engagement. Many continued successes! Can I call you for my member/guest?
Darren, I am sure that you must received literally thousands of messages congratulating you on your superb win at the 140th. Open Championship . Anyway , may I join in and like everyone else say "Confratulations and may you continue to win many more!" Roddy Foo, Malaysia
How many pints of Guinness did you drink Sunday night? From Indonesia, a big congratulations on your maiden Major, may more follow. Great style, great composure, great nerves...a cigarette and a few pints , hahaha, gotta love it. My 12 year old Vincent plays golf, I do to, but started way too late. What a great game to play. Walking around a golf course with your kid and some friends, fresh air, competition, exercise, and hole 19 to top it all off. Doen't get any better. If you have any small souvenirs from The Open to spare....Cheers, Ben, Semarang, Indonesia
I may not be Irish, but your victory gave me more satisfaction than any other I've watched in more than 40 years. A shining example of achievement despite extremes of adversity. Many congratulations. John Higginson
No question, Sir. You answered them all quite well this past Sunday. Congratulations!!! Andrew Morgret, Memphis, TN USA
Darren - I am one of the fortunate few who have had the pleasure of your company for 4-5 hours in a pro-am before the 2003 Deutsche Bank Classic at the TPC of Boston. My (then) 12 year old son caddied for me that day, and the warmth, fun and camaraderie you shared with us that day have been a memory of a lifetime for both of us. We were both glued to the set on Sunday as you brought home the Open Championship. Well done, well played and keep it going from two of your biggest fans! Please stop by for a celebratory pint the next time you're in the States!
Congratulations Darren - I have been a fan of yours for years.... actually met you at Royal Portrush 3 weeks before the Open. I had just finished my round and you shook my hand and signed my Pro V - needless to say, its perched on my office book shelf... Ricky Dowell - Houston, TX
I don't have much to say Darren other than I have been a fan of yours since I can remember, which if you were with me at the pub last night i guess wouldnt be sayin' much...(laugh) As an American and being a fan of yours and recently Rory's I am so proud of you and your accomplishment at The Open. I had a pint ready in hand before you tapped in on 18 on Sunday. Cheers to you! If you ever are in the States and are in Michigan you have a place to stay at my house. Love ya! - Micah Williams
I could not have been more pleased to see anyone win The Open. Your game was fun to watch. You're a heck of a player and terrific personality in the game. Congrats! Nick White (Los Angeles)
Mr.Clarke, this is not a question, these are just my congratulations for your wonderful winning of the British Open. I had the opportunity to follow your game hole by hole at the Italian Open in Turin on saturday and even if it was a difficult day, I really appreciated your mood and your way to manage the game. Since I have started play golf I have been a "Darren Clarke fan", so thank you for this wonderful victory ! Michele Gavino, Milan, Italy
fantastic display of pure ball striking best ive watched for years. hows about chubby renaming his management company..."Chubbys Champions"
Well Done Darren.I was glued to the tv on Open saturday and sunday and can tell you i was very happy for you when you won the championship.Can i wish you all the best for the future for you and your boys and your fiancee too.I look forward to your next win.Congratulations again.Alan Halls
Darren, Your fabulous victory at The Open brought tears of joy to my wife and I. Your determination to succeed over the years is an inspiration and you deserved the victory as your play was sublime for all 4 days. My wife is currently living with cancer and having met you briefly at the Dubai Desert Classic a few years ago your experience has helped her. For that and your great win I thank you. Many regards and good luck with your future wedding. Keep smiling! Richard Scarr.
Darren - simply wanted to say congratulations "directly", rather than just cheering at the TV screen. You put a smile on my face on Sunday evening that's still there now. Well done and well deserved!!!
Words cannot describe just how happy I am for you. You've been my favorite golfer for a very long time, and I knew you could do it. I toasted you with a Guinness all the way from across the pond in Nebraska. We've never met, but I am incredibly proud! Well done - you deserve this! Nick Paden
Congrats, Darin, wow what an achievement for what you have been through.I too had a wife with cancer, raising 5 kids, fortunately my wife is in remission, but all the obstacles, medical bills, mind stress, and thought of losing something close to your heart.I congradulate you on the win, what you have gone through, and most staying true to your heart and the boys.Someone up above is looking over you, and rewarding you for the great man an inspiration you are to the game of golf and family.When times get rough, look back at this win as a milestone or turning point in what life really means.My day will come soon too, good luck and keep winning.
I live in Toronto Canada.I go back home to Northern Ireland every chance i get.Iwas so happy on Sunday for your victory and proud of my country.It couldnt happen to a nicer person.my best wishes on your engagement and in the future,professional and private life.I know this was supposed to be a question,but i had to tell how impressed i am with Darren Clarke
Congratulations on your recent success, Darren! To be honest, I had not followed your golf much nor that of the Europeon Tour with the exception of the few that play here in the States on a regular basis. With that being said, you have truly inspired every highly handicapped golfer around the world to aspire to do what you did this past weekend. Whether they do it in golf or another sport, anything is achieveable. Congratulations on the Open (especially in those conditions) you played a truly Masterful four days of golf. Looking forward to seeing you play at the upcoming major tourneys especially in the US!! As a congrats from me, send me your paypal email address and I will buy your next Guinness! Just one though, I didnt just bank $1million+! :)
I had the honour of playing with you at a pro-am prior to the African Open a few years ago. This win could not have come to a more worthy person as you are a genuinely nice bloke. (nice guys don't always come second!). Well done-you are a worthy champion. Kind regards, Mike
Hi Darren, This message is more of a congratulatory note.I couldn't be happier for you and your family on your stunning victory at The Open Championship. To have fought thru adversity like you have only makes this win more special. Continued success and thanks for some great memories. We had a few pints ourselves to celebrate your win! Pete in Canada
Darren, just a quick note to say congratulations on a well deserved victory - it couldn't have happened to a nicer bloke. Do you think you should now have a word with Monty?
Warmest congratulations on your fantastic achievement at Royal St Georges. In the follow-up media coverage I was interested to note that prior to your social rounds at Royal Portrush you enjoy three pints and on return to the clubhouse you enjoy about another seven pints. I am delighted to inform you that this level of imbibing qualifies you to join me and my mates at our annual golf break at Slaley Hall 17th to 22nd June 2011. You can bring along your friends Chubby and Lee if you think they can hack the pace. Best regards from the gang: aka - Robot Allanby, Justin Nose, Spray Floyd, Pancake Harrington, Fred Klunk, Spike Weir, Jack Neckless, Puke Donald, Blubber Watson, Lee Wayward, Belly Andrade, Rocco Mediocre, Hair on Badly, Eduardo Moaninari, Butcher Harmon and Stuart Clink.
Well done on the Open win :) takes an awful lot to make a Derry man turn over the Derry v Donegal match but had to be done.... and well worth the watch. Always playing with a smile, never had the pleasure to meet you but seem a real genuine great fella... Congrats again
Greetings Darren: As part of an email exchange with a friend regarding your fantastic Open victory, I sent him this little bit of doggerel I made up. My friend encouraged me to pass it along to you. [Sung to the tune from Danny Boy] Oh Darren boy, the drives and iron shots were true 'tis sure, Across St. George, you beat the wind and rain and men. Your nerve steadfast beneath a mighty Open test, A broad, calm smile you wore from start to end. And when Yank Phil, charging, dropped his eagle putt, You answered back with eagle of your own. And after Dustin wildly pushed one out-of-bounds, We knew the Claret Jug you would take home. Congrats from a fan in the USA--Ronald Brisbois
Hi Darren . A couple of weeks ago i contemplated giving up my Golf coaching career . What you have done this weekend has reinspired me to stick at it and keep going . My friends all call me small Darren because of my build and my followthrough and at times i feel you posess me on the golf course . Like you i need to set new goals and contiunue my work in London i am originally from limerick where i met you some years ago at the jp mc manus proam . My wife was taken away with you and Lee when ye tryed to out do each other in signing her Catalogue of players . I wish you all the best in the future in golf marriage and health you are a wonderfull man . Regards Shane Sheehy .
Many congratulations on your wonderful golf and particularly your speech afterwards. As a member of Dungannon Golf Club you are eligible to play as a guest with the Battery Brigade on Wednesdays. The requirments for membership are: (1) a certain age,, we are all well over 42; (2) a certain profiency in the game. We reckon you qualify on both counts; so the question is; would you be free to join us any Wednesday at 12.00 noon? Joe McCausland
Darren, I used to clear up your beer bottles when you, Lee and Paul stayed at Stephen Bolers place in spernal, Warwickshire when you were playing the Forest of Arden! I have waited for the result on Sunday ever since! Many congratulations, you are a gentleman and a credit to your or any sport. Tim Woodward
Darren - long time my favourite golfer - congratulations. You have always reminded me so much of my ex son--in-law who had a lovely nature, same look and build, cigar smoker, beer drinker. He came dressed as Darren Clarke to a celebrity costume party we put on. Have been watching you playing better each tournament and knew there was a big win on the way. CONGRATULATIONS DARREN - looking forward to your next big win!! Robyn Powell, New Zealand
Darren, I just wanted to congratulate you on winning The Open -fantastic. You are such an inspiration to everyone and this really could not have happened to a nicer gentleman. Many congrats
Never moved from the TV since Friday, willed you home like many others. Well deserved, best wishs to you and the family. Ian
Darren, Not so much a question as Congrats! My 13 yr old son (btw a scratch player with a nice tournament cv) and I are big fans. We have watched you for many years and have admired how you handle yourself. You have an honesty and class thru thick and thin that transcends your golf stardom. If you ever make it to Charlotte, NC and have a few hours for a game at Charlotte CC I'd love to meet you and host. Enjoy your well earned victory at the Open. John Shimp
The Irish in me came out again today. What a show. Hope to visit Ireland again in the fall. Sure am proud of my heritage. Having a pint or two in your honor. Congratulations for a well deserved win.
Great job Darren! This is one American who is always pulling for you. You are a true pro and gentleman.
Darren: Congratulations on a terrific weekend. You were tough. Just to make sure you're not enjoying your beverages alone (which we're sure you're not) my son and I are enjoying a few pints of Guinness in your honor. Warmest regards, Terrell and Sam
I just wanted to say how happy I was that you won the Open this year. You have been one of my favourite golfers for a long time and you were due.
Congratulations Darren for winning the 3rd leg of the "CHUBBY SLAM" Extremely well played. You are a deserving champion. Steve Xintas
Congrats from New Orleans!! I'm raising a pint of Guinness for you. Cheers!
true peoples champion so deserved. glad i predicted right.....knew you had the game to do it.....good to see nice guys finishing first mate
You made my day Darren ...( I think I might be happier than you are ) - it was early hours in China here with a full day ahead but worth evey minute - great stuff mate ! A fantastic start to my holiday back in South Africa....cheers.
Darren - Congratulations on your victory in the Open Championship. I haven't pulled so hard for someone to win since Jack Nicklaus in the '86 Masters. It is long overdue and well deserved. Enjoy the taste of victory. You earned it this week!!!!!!!!
Not a question sir, just a congratulations. Excellent effort throughout the tourney. I love to golf but cannot due to left foot surgery. I am a cancer survivor and have lost people close to me so I know a little of what you went thru. To persevere after that is the wonderful part. I wish you continued success with raising your daughters as well as your golf game. If you are ever around Charleston SC contact me as I would love to buy you a pint!! David L Dorothy Quality Engineer Boeing SC
Darren, Can't tell you how proud we are of you. The second putt on #1 was HUGE. It's great to see good things happen to good people. I've never had more fun, or been more nervous, watching a tournament. Brought a tear to my 41 yr old eyes. Can't wait to see you here in the states a little more often. Hoping to see some Twit pics of the Jug in action.....with some of the Black Stuff. Cheers Prince. BB
AWESOME DISPLAY ON SUNDAY DARREN! I TOO AM HOISTING A FEW PINTS TO CELEBRATE A REAL WORKING MAN OF THE EARTH & CHAMPION GOLFER. THANKS FOR THE WICKED GREAT ENTERTAINMENT THIS WEEKEND AT THE OPEN. YOU ARE A TRUE INSPIRATION & FINE EXAMPLE OF A GOOD FATHER. GOOD LUCK & MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU & YOUR FAMILY THE REST OF YOUR DAYS...
Hi Darren, I want to congratulate on winning the 2011 The Open, no one else desire more then you do. It was a lot of fun watching you play these past 4 days and doing your very best. I'm sure you was having fun doing it too!! Keep up the great play and congratulation again.... Deb
Hi Darren Congratulations on your win yesterday, where is the fun in winning something in the first few years ! Just wanted to let you know I was also 42 this year and am just finishing a diet, I was 244 lbs and am now 176, 2 more to reach my goal. On the G I diet + personal trainer and very little to no alcohol (sorry !) Good luck ! Regards Philip Beijing
I screamed at the TV on Thursday morning "What about Clarkey - there's more than 2 top class golfers from NI". You showed them Darren. I havent got words to say how we all felt in the Campbell household yesterday. It doesnt get any better than that. Enjoy the craic that comes with the boys and Alison. Good luck to you all Darren and well done. Stand Up For The Ulsterman.
Well done Darren everyone from Northern Ireland is very proud off you, not only for the golfer you are but also the person you are.
Hi Darren, this is not a question, but a note of congratulations on your fantastic win yesterday. I am, as is my family, so pleased for you. It is great to see you win after so many years of trying... P.S. we have the same birthday, but I was born in '62... Warm regards, Cleeves Palmer
Dear Darren Congratulations! It was so fantastic to watch you and the emotions ran high with all of us. So deserving, which clearly showed also from the reception you received from your golfing colleagues as well as the fans. All the best to you and yours - Sheila
Well Done Darren, was at Hoylake that emotional day when you were walking down 18 and along with everyone else our hearts went out to you. First thought on Friday morning was DC to win the Open !! Couldn't force myself to the bookies just incase in blighted days 2,3 & 4 ? So glad things are on the up for you and all your family. Now go get another. Russ Johnson (Ellesmere GC, Manchester)
Many, many congratulations Darren. Never has there been a more worthy winner of The Open. You are a true gentleman and a credit to not only the world of golf, but to yourself and your family. The way you conduct yourself is something that many players can look up to and also aspire to. You are a role model to all young players and you are one of the nicest and most genuine sportsmen around. Congratulations on a magnificent achievement and enjoy your celebrations. Best wishes Mark
I am delighted that more congratulations are due to another Ulster golfer, so soon after Rory McIlroy's triumph. He brings pride and honour to Northern Ireland. Darren Clarke, originally from Dungannon, County Tyrone, becomes the latest in a long line of British and, specifically, Ulster golfers and sports people to bring esteem and honour to the Province. Of course our other Ulsterman, Graeme McDowell MBE, won the US Masters Championship in 2010; Rory McIlroy won it this year, 2011; and now Darren Clarke has won the Open Championship in 2011.
An amazing performance by a man who is a hell of a human being. Well done Darren .... you can win another one, or two, if you really want to! Hugh Doyle
Darren, no questions, just words of awe, of appreciation and of congratulations to a great guy. Your approach to golf and life has been an inspiration to me over the years. Your integrity, connection to people and honesty with your own outer and inner challenges have been amazing in a world of cynical professionalism. Yesterday was about Karma and there is no one in the game of golf today who more deserves for the gods and spirits to reward them. That shot on the 9th.. yes it was to be your day and we "normal" people celebrate with you. Aside from all of that, putting another Irish name on a majors trophy is brilliant. Paddy started the streak, but g-Mac, Rory and now yourself being the crowning glory. A pint of the black stuff raised by a very proud Irishman in Finland. You are our hero Darren... .. ps forget about the weight watchers, just enjoy the fantastic moment!!! Donal
Darren you are the man, you have done Northern Ireland proud. Best Regards Colin Doyle
Hi Darren, Like many thousands of others I cannot describe how delighted I am that you won the Open. I've been rooting for you for many years now and I've never been as delighted for anyone to win anything. It speaks volumes for your belief and dedication. Whenever I get to meet you I will be proud to shake your hand and I offer you my heartiest congratulations for this brilliant win. All the very best and keep swinging!!
Well done Darren. One of the most complete 72 holes ever seen at a major. To make it a hatrick of wins for 3 of the nicest guys in the world of sport just makes it extra special. You and your family deservreto enjoy this moment of glory and lets hope this is your spring board to the Ryder Cup next year. Many congratulations!!!
Great to see a real Gentleman deservedly winning the greatest Championship in the world. I had to do a Jimenez and have a large glass of Rioja to celebrate your win.
Hey Darren, no questions here just a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS on winning the Open. I have also lost my wife to cancer and I know just how tough it can be to get through the fight and the aftermath. Well done Darren you are a bloody legend mate Dexter Roniger
Hi Darren Just wanted to add my congratulations on a magnificent display at Royal St Georges. Your composure over the weekend was an inspiration to all handicap golfers. May you go on to do the double with the Irish Open! Best wishes to you and your family - this win could not have happened to a nicer fellow. John Place
Congratulations on your win. As someone who has also lost their wife to cancer, leaving two young children as well, I have nothing but admiration for what you have achieved. You are an example to us all.
Still pinching myself- have you three (from NI) agreed to take it in turns to win Majors? lol Very well done!
Darren, Congratulations on winning the Open, there couldn't have been a more popular champion. Your victory brought a tear to my eye and caught the imagination of my four year old son who, thanks to you, now can't wait to play his first round of golf. Enjoy the moment and good luck for the future. Simon and Henry.
Again not so much a question as comment Darren.My PGA coach says you have the best swing in golf and this week you proved him right.By the way I had £50 at 20 to 1 on Dustin winning but the pleasure I got from your win was worth far more than the money I would have won.Well done Terry Day
Congratulations Darren - both on your fantastic win and the great job you are doing as a dad to your boys! Enjoy the celebrations and hopefully I will see you in Killarney at the Irish Open in a couple of weeks.
Well done Darren, A great win by a true sportsman. Freddie
Darren - Heartiest CONGRATULATIONS you are truly a people's Champion. Hope the hangover ( s ) are not too bad. You have a warmth, enjoyed by golfers and non golfers alike. Enjoy ! Mark ( North Yorkshire )
Darren you have brought tears to my eyes twice, on the walk to the first tee in the ryder cup at the k club, when you flushed the driver off the tee i knew we would win. secondly yesterday after dustin hit it oob on 14 and you punched the iron pin high i knew you would win. royal marine commandos do not cry, please make it a third time at the uspga. god bless you and your family
Big congrats Darren,what a victory yesterday. Portrush seems to be on a hangover today
Darren, Many Congrats! My family and I are so happy for you on a great win! We were pulling for you every step of the way. Enjoy all the spoils that go with winning with this great event, you deserve it as you have worked so hard. All our best to you. Jason Williams
Darren, Cannot tell you how happy you have made me, my family and everyone over here in Stranraer. We consider ourselves half Irish here and were rooting for you all the way. You should be rightly proud. All the best to you and your family. Bruce Watt
Hi Darren,I'm not a big golf fan,but you had me hitting every shot on Sunday.I was so pleased when you won,also brilliant speech.hope you win many more tournaments.Everyone I talk to to-day knows about it.I doubt if there has ever been a more popular Champion.CONGRATULATIONS,you made a lot of people very proud. Rodney Reid
QUITE BRILLIANT !!!! Is all I can say.. As a fan for many many years I am just so pleased for you and your family. Celebrated your success long into the night at my house in Sandwich and loved every minute of it, although did manage to get a little sleep :) Well done again Darren...QUITE BRILLIANT !!! Mark Freeman
Soo thrilled. Many congratulations
Ce n'est pas une question mais un grand merci pour le spectacle et la qualité de jeu que vous nous avez montré ce week-end. Merci Monsieur Clarke et continuez à nous faire réver.
This is not so much a question,but a couple of statements. First off,congratulations on your victory in the Open. It is well deserved. Secondly, you and Colin Montgomery provided me with one of my most favorite experiences in golf. During a practice round at the 2000 US Open at Pebble Beach I was a marshall at the 4th hole. You and Colin were playing together and having an exceptionally good time together. Vijay Singh was playing in front of you and when you came to the 4th the two of you started giving Vijay a very good razzing for playing so slow. Mr.Personality (Vijay) got taken out of his game which I thought was hilarious and he stomped off down the fairway. One of the best moments I have ever seen
Darren, Congratulations, you are a Champions Champion. I haven't had that much fun watching a major in a long time. That was great for television and great for the game. Nice to see ball striking like that. Nice to see a personality like yours. We need more Darren Clarke! Best wishes to you and your family. Greg Kolling
I joined this site today solely to pass on my congratulations. You empitomise all that golf is - a friendly, enjoyable experience and an excellent role model for all young golfers (also an example for some of the more uptight golfers I see on occasions). I look forward to sending further congratulations in the future.
I have just started golf in the last year.I am eight and you are my hero!I just love golf, like you say it is a great game for everyone.I sat and watched for six hours on Sunday.We were all cheering for you. I hope I can meet you some day for advice.I liked when you gave the ball to the young boy in the crowd.
2 personal highlights of your fantastic Open victory, both 'missed' by the BBC! Nearing the end of your final round, you gave your ball to a young lad (unlike most other golfers in your position!). Then, after your acceptance speech, I 'lip read' Phil Mickelson, (such a gracious loser) say 'Good Speech'! Keep winning! Mike (Reynolds)
Congratulations for a great "Open" Victory. I have been a fan for years and look forward to hopefully seeing you in the United States soon! Job well done!
Darren. I was so pleased that you won The Open !! I believe that things happen for a reason and your dedication, determination and talent shone through for a deserved win. With Northern Irish heritage, that makes it very special for me. Your humility in victory is to be admired...enjoy the success and I look forward to seeing you defend the Claret Jug next year..David Hazlett
I am a very proud American who found himself pulling for you in this year's Open Championship. Congratulations, and if you're ever in the Melbourne FL area, you've got a place to stay, with a refrigerator full of Guiness, and Meg O'Malley's Irish Pub not far away :-))
Hi Darren, Having been through a very similar situation in life, I'm very glad to see that your life and career has taken such a good turn. Congratulations and enjoy it as much as you can.
Hey Darren - Congratulations on a great win !! You give us "older" guys who struggle with their game hope that it can turn around. I know this will never happen but if you, gmac, and Rory ever get around Atlanta -- stay at my house in Oxford, AL (an hour from UAB also) and play a great course near here. Thanks and best of luck in the future -- you WILL win more majors!!!
Hi Darren, just can I say 'Brilliant' could not have happened to a nicer fella!! Many more to come,congratulations. Andy Robinson
Hi Darren, it was wonderful to see you win the open this weekend. I followed you every day and it was a pleasure. Many congratulations from Eva in Örebro, Sweden
I know u finished the week with a Tour Rat Scotty putter but I am sure u used a different Scotty on 1 of the other rounds,,Did u use an older Scotty on another day?...lots of beers bet on the outcome of this Q. thanks and nice week,
Congratulations on your win at the Bristish Open. You are truly a class individual & desrved the win.
Well done Darren and fully deserved, from all at LFC Supporters Club.
Darren, I follow your carrer for the last 10 years or so, allways admire the way you handle all the presure in and out the course I have the pleasure to met you in The Ford Champoionship when you retire (your wife illnes) even though you accpet to take a picture with at Doral, I cry with in Ryder 06 and I cry again yesterday with your big and extraordinary winn, Enjoy Darren you deserv all the luck you a great sportsman and a truly gentelman, shats off for you my friend, sincerely Gonzalo - Buenos Aires/Argentina
Not a question - just to say many congrats. I can't think of a more worthy winner than yourself. I have a great respect for the way you have coped with the traumas life has thrown at you - and it's great to see your smiling eyes back again. Good luck to you and your family in your professional and private life - you deserve it.
Congratulations on a superb Open victory from the Guinness Golfers of America, Carlisle Barracks GC, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
I just wanted to wish you the best for tomorrow. I am really pulling for you. Vince
Just win the damn thing - you deserve it much more than all the others - from an otherwise Tiger fan!!!!
He's no Superman, but it's Clarke's Kent as Northern Irishman holds on to lead. The 42-year-old, whose heavy-set physique and penchant for smoking during rounds are a throwback to a time before golf was dominated by finely tuned athletes, took advantage of clearing afternoon weather to fire a 69. From the Sydney morning Herald. As a Throwback myself originally from Ballycastle....Go DARREN ONE for the THROWBACKS !!!
Hi Darren, just want to wish you the best of luck for today!!!
all the best for Sunday, you have the game and character. Go for it you deserve the biggest prize in golf
Hi Darren.....Congrats on your WIN today....you deserved it and much more....nearly had to kick start my heart when it was all even...but you came on so strong and showed them all what you are made of....good luck in the future.. Joyce.D
Hello Darren, Congratulations Open Champion! Well played. Enjoying a bit of the black stuff in your honor. Sláinte, Mike
I told your the best links player just believe and its yours Darren.. Go on I'll buy the Guinness LOL.
It's a lot of fun watching you play in the British Open. It's like you're taking a walk in the park with friends. Best of luck and stay dry!
PLEASE DO NOT PLAY SO MANY GOOD SHOTS - EVERY TIME THE BALL GOES IN THE HOLE MY POOR CAT IS CATAPULTED OFF MY LAP ON TO THE DOG - HE IS GETTING FED UP WITH IT. PLAY WELL TOMORROW - REALLY REALLY HOPE YOU DO IT. DOG DOESN`T.
I just want to say nobody is striking the ball better than you so just keep doing what your doing and you will be Open Champion Darren Good luck and I'm driving from Downpatrick to portrush to buy you that pint of Guinness keep smiling bigman..
I lost my wife to breast cancer in 2004. I was pulling for you at the Ryder Cup after you lost your wife. WIN tomorrow for yourself, your sons,your late wife, your fiance(Congratulations!), your red stool, and especially all your friends who will be surrounding you as you hoist a few pints, so you won't fall of your stool! John Joyner p.s. I have a wee tad of Irish blood in me from generations past.
Hi Darren! All the best for the final round tomorrow! It´s your time - do it!!! From Germany Philipp Rossberg
No question: just go Darren to the claret jug ! It would be so deserved!!!
From Austin, Texas.....Play well tomorrow Darren. It's hard to hide desire and talent and brother, you've got it! If you can make it to Austin in the fall, I'll arrange a tailgate party before a Longhorn home game. I'll look for you tomorrow holding the "jug". Best of luck!
Fingers crossed that you are there on the winners podium tomorrow. Fine play in very poor conditions. Keep smiling!! And make sure that you and Miguel hang around and have a couple of cigars to celebrate!!
We're having the Clarkey breakfast tomorrow in Toronto. Everybody here is behind you. Go Darren, go.
Just a note to wish you well over the weekend at Royal St Georges. Would so love you to win.
Good to see that an old dog can still do it . Keep it going. You can win it!
Right bigman GMac and Rory won majors let's make it a hatrick for the Irish I still think you are the best links golfer in the world so prove it!! Good luck Darren.
I noted the wing tip golf shoes (black and white I believe) you were wearing on the second day at wentworrh. I did not see those on the stuburt website. I was wondering who makes them and where can I get a pair. All the best, Mark
Hi Mark, well spotted on the shoes!! They are, in fact, Stuburt shoes, but as you rightly say they do not appear on their website - because they are specially made for me! They do have some great shoes on there and I can highly recommend them. All the best, Darren
Darren. A quick note to say thank you for giving your ball to my four year old son on the 9th tee at Wentworth today (Friday). He's thrilled to bits and absolutely loved the day. Regards. Marcus Hollick, Bristol.
Hi Marcus, always good to know that it's appreciated! Glad to hear you had a fantastic day. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for having your photo taken with my 4 year old son at the golf live event, it was a great pleasure to meet you and you made my sons day. All the best for the rest of the season. Paul
Hi Paul, was a pleasure. Hope you enjoyed the event - I thought it went down really well and was very impressed with the turnout. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, Congratulations for your win in Spain.Was watching the final round live here in Malaysia and I thought you had blown it when your second shot on 11 found the water.Hope that your winning form will continue. Roddy
Hi darren great win in spain last week and cant wait to see you in the open next week you will win and i hope i may be able to see you at the london open in Kent GOOD LUCK FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR
First of all congratulations for your great result in Spain...i'm italian ,and it's a very long time i follow You on TV, as a lot of people i know in my country...i wanna ask You if you'll be present at the next BMW Italian Open that will take place the second week-end of june (9/12 june)...it will be great to follow you in Italy!!!! thanks in advance for Your answer, and good luck for the rest of the year!
Hi Enrico, thanks for the message - I'm really pleased to have won the event in Mallorca and it just goes to show my hard work is paying off. I shall be playing in the BMW Italian Open in June and I'm looking forward to it. Cheers, Darren.
Did Billy Foster caddy for you? I really want to congratulate you on your great win yesterday we,ve followed you for a long time now and its nice to know that you can put it up to the young guys like Rory and Gmac Eileen Coleman ..new recruit
Hi there Eileen, thanks for the message - much appreciated - and it feels great to be up there in the winners circle again. The caddy in Mallorca was Muller - Billy Foster now caddies for our world numbe one, Lee Westwood! Cheers, Darren.
Congratulation on your win Darren. There's a bit of life in the old dog still :-) Good luck for the future, looking forward to the next win. Freddie
Great Work DC !! Back in the winners circle... Worlds top 100... Top 60 in Race to Dubai... Happy Days ahead I feel and to cap it all... 40/1 Winner on sunday for me :) CHEERS Mark Freeman
Congrats on the win in Mallorca!
Hi Darren, I just wanted to pass on my congrats & best wishes on your win in the Iberdrola Open today. My heart was in my mouth a couple of times but you came through with some great saves. Great to see you playing with Jose Maria also. You never know we may have a NI double later on tonight if GMac can pull it off in the Players. Best wishes, Teresa Browne, Co. Limerick
Congratulations Darren! Some great golf on the closing holes and a deserved win after all the hard work in recent times. Its actually my birthday today and I cannot think of a better present than seeing you back in the winner's circle. I look forward to following you in July at the Scottish and at The Open. All the very best from down under. Michael Anderson
Hi Darren Congratulations , Great win in Spain TJ McG County Sligo GC and Castle Dargan GC success in the future..
well done darren on winning today, could you try not to give me so many nervous moments next time please.
Hi Darren, No question for you just wanted to wish you luck in Spain from the 12th - 15th this month....No pressure but I'll have 50p each way on you....All the best...Bill.
Good morning Darren. I would like to ask you if you could advise me of what clubs I should be using to improve my game and to get more distance on my shots. I play at a par 72 course near Cardiff and normally complete the course in between 82-92. Also I have a tendency to always go left to right with my tee shots but can't go right to left at all. Also would using a certain ball make a difference to my game. I would be really grateful if you would offer me some of your valuable advice. Many thanks, Mark Harris
Hi Mark, thanks for the question. I would imagine from what you say that you play off around 15 handicap or thereabouts which isn't too bad at all. It's really difficult for me to say what clubs you should be using as a lot depends on your swing, height, strength etc. The best piece of advice I can give you is to take a trip to your local pga pro who will not only be able to suggest clubs that are right for you, he'll also be able to take a look at your swing and help you with your tee shots. All equipment is a matter of preference but I can highly recommend Taylormade Clubs and their Penta ball is great - I've used their stuff for a long while now and you'd be pushed to find anything better. Good luck, Darren.
Hi Darren, I just wanted to say well done to you for the way you have played over the last 6 weeks in South Africa & the UAE. You have played a lot more consistent and you are putting a lot better too. I hope you enjoy your few weeks off. It is well deserved and it will be nice to spend time with Alison and the 2 boys and all the family. Looking forward to seeing you back on the Fairways at the Tavistock Cup next month. Oh and welcome to Twitterville. Best Regards, Teresa, Co. Limerick
Hi Teresa, thanks for the message - it's certainly been a long six weeks and it's great to get home and it's definitely time for a bit of a switch off for a bit! Twitter is definitely a bit of fun with the rest of the guys! All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren congrats to you and Alison on your engagement hope you both have a great Christmas and New year together with your boys. Well done bigman!!!!
Once again Darren, no question this time. Just a quick note to congratulate you and Alison on your great news. Wishing you both all the best for the future. Cheers, Ray
Hi Darren just a quick message to congratulate you and Alison on you engagement,may I wish you both every happiness and have a great 2011,best regards,Paul Sloan,Dublin
Hi Darren, My message is not golf related this time. I just wanted to congratulate you and Alison on your engagement. I am really delighted for you both. I wish you and yours a very happy and peaceful christmas and all the best for 2011. Best Regards, Teresa Browne. Co. Limerick
Hi Teresa, thanks for the message - Christmas will be even better now that the lady said yes!! Cheers and have a good one, Darren.
Hi Darren,just a quick message to say well done this season,well up in the Order of Merit and being Vice Captain in the Ryder Cup,I was watching you in Lough Erne with Rory and you had time for everybody and signed an autograph for me,hope you win before the season ends the very best of luck to you,Paul.
Congrats Darren on the fine Ryder Cup victory, just listened to ur interview and delighted to hear that you will be trying hard to make the team rather than going for the Captaincy this time round. Bet your father used those two pairs of wet suits and more at the weekend. Good luck for the future. Mal (Rathmore)
Hi Mal, thanks for the message - it certainly was a great result down at Celtic Manor and it was fantastic to be part of it. I'll certainly be giving it my best shot for the next one! Cheers, Darren.
Olá Darren, sou seu fã numero one aqui no Brazil, fiquei feliz por voce ser escolhido para ser vice capitao da equipe europeia, espero que a Europa venca a Ryder Cup e espero que na proxima edicao voce estaja la, mas desta vez jogando.Boa Sorte, um grande abraco de todos Brasileiros.
Hi there, and thanks for the message - it's always great to get worldwide support! Cheers, Darren.
HI Darren, Congrats once again for being in the Ryder Cup. I think I wrote to you before about my ancestors being from Dungannon, Clonfaekle, Tyrone so I do have a bit of an allegiance with the European Team - good luck! Sandy, Canada
Hi Darren. i'd just like to wish you and the boys all thr best in your new home. Good luck to the whole Ryder Cup team; i'm sure the captains picks were a real problem but i think that just shows how strong the team is. And as the father of two young children myself i totally understand your decision to step back from Ryder Cup qualification yourself. Personally i'd love to see you playing but in truth family has to come first and i'm sure you'll never regret spending the extra time with the family moving into your new home. Finally good luck in Switzerland. Go out there and show us just what the Ryder Cup team is missing without you playing. Joe Whiteside
Hi there Joe, thanks for the message - it's just great to be home in Northern Ireland and the boys are loving it too which is great. I didn't do too badly in Switzerland but Miguel and Edoardo being 1st and 2nd was a fantastic result and I know Monty will be delighted. I would have loved to be in the team myself but not to be this time around but I'm really looking forward to being a vice-captain and think we have a really strong team to give the Americans something to think about!! Cheers, Darren.
Not a question...just wanted you to know that I am a yank who loves the Euros. You are one of the members in my dream foursome. Running my full time golf shop at Dub's Dread Golf Course in Kansas City I am alwasy the significant minority as I pull for the "bad guys" each week and especially during the Ryder Cup. Best of luck in all of your endeavors and keep on being the great guy you are. Tim Larson Double Eagle Golf Clubs Kansas City, Kansas
Hi Darren, I was at the PGA Championship at Whistling Straits and was fortunate to have you sign my hat and have a photo taken with you. I just wanted to let you know that the hat you signed is the hat I wear when I go for my chemo treatments for Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I am so pleased that you took the time to do that for me. It really means a lot to me. You are one of my favorite golfers as you exhibit integrity and class both on and off the course. I wish you all the best in the future. Thanks, Kerry
Hi Kerry, thanks very much for the email. I'm so glad that you're wearing the cap for your chemo sessions - I know only too well what they can be like. But if it does the job then it's worth all the agro. Hope you'll soon be back to full fitness. Kind Regards, Darren.
Hello Darren, After receiving my first set of Golf clubs for my Birthday - I toddled off to the Local Driving Range.. and to my surprise and my other half's annoyance I was hitting the ball straight and far... smug springs to mind.. until I woke up the next day and could not move my fingers especially the right hand! this lasted for over 2 weeks gradually easing. Help! What did I do wrong?... Oh and does anyone want a set of ladies Clubs!
Hi Suzanne, well done you - one up to the girls! I don't think you did anything wrong - I just think that the movement of the golf swing is probably something you're hands aren't used to so they were just probably complaining a bit! Keep at it and don't sell the clubs! Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren Congratulations on both the Ryder Cup Vice Captaincy and the invite to the upcoming US PGA; both undoubtedly reflect the high regard in which your contribution to the game continues to be held. Further congratulations on your recent return to form. My family and I were very pleased to witness your success at Loch Lomond and as a result your participation in the Open. Good luck in the coming days & weeks and in giving Monty something more to think about. All the very best! Michael Anderson (Perth, W.A.)
Hi Michael, thanks very much for the message. I'm really looking forward to being a vice-captain for Monty at Celtic Manor and will still be trying to earn a place on the team! Can't wait to get to the USPGA and it was wonderful to receive the invitation to play. King regards, Darren.
Hi Darren, Well played in the Open, on TV it looked as though you had gold shafts in your irons? What brand and specification are these? Regards Andy
Hi Andy, They are True Temper shafts called "Monaco".... and are steel shafts but heavy ones....the finish on them are to make them different!!!! Regards, Darren.
Hello, Darren, How Are You Doing? I Currently Play Off A Handicap Of 5.7 And Am 15 Years Old, My Target Is To Get Down To Scratch Before I Am 18, Can You Give Me Any Tips/Advice On How To 'Possibly' Do This? Kind Regards, Jack,
Hello there Jack, very good so far getting down to 5.7, well done. To get to the next level you really need to tighten up on your short game. So, I would suggest practising your shots from 100 yards and in - accuracy with these shots is critical in turning good scores into even better scores. I wish you luck and hope you get there! Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren GREAT NEWS on the Ryder Cup appointment, truly deserved. Still think you might make the team, either way it will be great to see you at Celtic Manor.. Best wishes Mark Freeman
Hi Mark, thanks for that - I must say it's a real honour to be a vice captain and I'm really looking foward to it - it's a really good team of four to inspire the team to victory! Cheers, Darren.
Darren, Congrats on win in Adare and 2nd Place in Loch Lomond. You seem to be very relaxed in Loch Lomond letting the golf come to you rather than chasing it. I always seem to under perform even when I know I should play better. Aside from 3 whiskey's before tee off what do you suggest?
Hi Patrick, thanks for the message. It was a frustrating final round at Loch Lomond but at least it put me on the road to St Andrews. I think probably you need to practice a bit more and get to really trust your swing and know where the ball's going - if you can get a bit of consistency on the range then you'll feel more confident and that in turn should make you play better. Dump the whiskey and try a Guinness instead! Cheers, Darren.
Congratulations on securing the last qualifying place at the Open Championship starting tomorrow! I will be following your progress and here's wishing you all the best and hope that you do well and maybe even win the event.! RODDY FOO
Congrats on a fine performance at lock Lomond and getting into the Open. I noticed that the shafts in your Irons look new? what are they?
Hi Mark, well spotted - yes the iron shafts are new and are True Temper Monaco shafts which are quite heavy and suit me really well. All the best, Darren.
Just like to wish you all the very best at St Andrews. We will all be glued to the TV, go and enjoy!
Well done Darren on securing your place at The Open you will be a fantastic addition to the field this week. Great result for you at the weekend aswell although I am sure you where desperate for the win. Have a great Open week and good luck for a high finish Best Wishes Mark Freeman
Hi Daz again, Congrats on your qualifying for the Open at the home of golf. It wouldnt of being the same with you not there. unlucky at loch lomond but you must take great belief out of your weeks work ( adare aswell) I see you back up the rankings and well positioned in race to dubai. Hope to see you at the top of the leaderboard this week.You have a good record around ST Andrews so the best of luck and we will be rooting for you. regards
Hey Big D, just a quick message to say congrats on the win in Adare and unlucky at the Barclays. Best I have seen you putt in a long time. Fingers crossed for you in the Open this week ! Slainte, Damien
Hello Darren, My son and I were pulling very hard for you at the Scottish Open here in Pennsylvania! Although you fell just a little short, your qualification for the Open Championship made us proud. No one deserves good fortune and a great run more than you do. My son and I will be praying hard for you at St. Andrews, play well Darren. Best wishes, John Muto
Darren, I wanted to say congratulations on a great showing at the Scottish Open. I watched on Sat and Sun mornings over here in America on the Golf Channel and was cheering hard for you. Great to see you playing so well and hitting some great shots. I was happy to see you get into the field at St Andrews. Again, I'll be glued to the coverage (wish I could be there in person). Good luck and bring home the Jug. Nick P. Lincoln, NE USA
Darren,great to see you back at top of a leader board again,it's been too quiet around the tour without you playing your best, good luck for the rest of the season on and off the course.
Darren,congratulations on a great week of golf,a little disappointed for you not to win The Scottish Open but delighted for you to get the last Open spot,you're such a class act.Best wishes next week, Eddie.
Congrats on your scottish open, now go one better in the British. I have got a ticket for the ryder cup and want to see you and Westwood tee it up again and spank those Yanks.. Best of luck for future, Steve James.
Hi Darren, Welkom terug (welcome back as we say in S.A.)Fantastic golf you are playing, it is so good to see you at the top again. Best of Luck to you, enjoy it !
Hi Darren, I just want to congratulate you on your win at The JP McManus Pro Am this week. I wasn't able to follow you on the course because of my wheelchair but I really enjoyed the pro am seeing all the pros and celebs on the practice range and putting green. I wish you all the best for the rest of 2010 and hope to see you in Killarney. Teresa, Co. Limerick.
Darren, Congrats on your win in Adare watching on monday you seemed to be very relaxed and really enjoying your golf here's to playing well in Scotland and to qualify for the Open. Five years ago this win seemed to be the catalist for Padraig Harrington to go on a good run of wins it would be super to see you back where you belong at the summit of the golfing world again.
Hi Mark, thanks so much for the message. Was delighted to win at Adare and am hoping the good form continues. Thanks for your support. Cheers, Darren.
Darren, I'd just like to congratulate you on winning the JP Mc Manus Pro Am. What is the next big competition that you are in? I wish you all the best in it anyway. Yours truly, Paraic.
Hi Paraic, thanks for your message - I'm really pleased to have won JP's Pro-am. My next event is the Barclays Scottish Open at Loch Lomond. Regards, Darren.
Hi Darren, Strictly not a question at all, but I wanted to be one of the first(and I'm sure many!) to congratulate you on your win at the JP McManus Pro-Am in Adare. Great score to-day by the way (a 68). Keep up the good work.Rgds.Cathal.
I notice you are not playing in the US or, British Open's? Is that a conscience decision or, is the another reason for this? We here in America miss seeing your competitive fires burning as you gave Tiger and Phil a run. Where is that Darren? Thanks! Stephen
Hi there Stephen, thanks for your message. The reason that I'm not playing in the US Open or Open Championship is quite simply that I have not qualified for those events. I'd certainly love to play both events but my world ranking isn't high enough right now and I did not get through the 36 hole qualifying rounds for either event. Hopefully I'll be at both in 2011! Regards, Darren.
Hey there Big D, well played in Portugal. What about an Ulster threesome for the Ryder Cup - you, GMac, and RoryMac. Put Ulster back on the map, lets see some of that old magic again.
Hi David, that's certainly a good thought! I'll have to play some good golf in the next few weeks to join Gmac and Rory down at Celtic Manor. Cheers, Darren.
Darren great finish in Portugal with the 66. Will we be seeing you in Wales in the Fall?
Hi Richard, thanks, I was really pleased to sign off with a really good final round in Portugal. Wales in September is a long shot but it won't be for the lack of trying! Regards, Darren.
Hello Darren, no questions but I would like to congratulate you on your play at the tournament in Portugal . . . It was great seeing you play with that special "fire" that we're accustomed to. I still watch you on the Golf Chanel whenever a tournament you're playing in is televised and even though I couldn't see every shot, I am so happy to have seen your rise up the leaderboard . . . Good going Darren! Valerie Lewis
Thanks for the message Valerie, much appreciated. Cheers, Darren.
Darren, Great golf from you at the Weekend in Portugal, especially Sunday which proved to be a difficult scoring day for most. I notice your putting stats were very decent Fri - Sun. Did you change anything ? Looking forward to watching you play in Killarney at the Irish Open. John Cregan
Well spotted John! I changed my putter and am now using a TaylorMade Ghost which seems to be working well right now. It was great to finish with a good round in Estoril. All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren, I am currently a 10 handicapper and have been playing competitive club golf for 3 year. I want to get to the next level and have started putting more time in on short game, is there any advice you can give? and eventually I would like to get to plus handicap, do you think its possible with hard work? Thanks Chris
Hi Chris, glad to see you've set yourself a challenge! Of course it's achievable - all you have to do is put in the time and effort to reach your goal. I always say to people in your position to practice their shots from 100 yards and in - you seem to have sussed that this is what's required! So good luck and hope you get there. Cheers, Darren.
Darren, There is a rumour around the Lough Erne Course that you will play with Rory at the "Duel of the Lough" on the course this year? Is there anything planned? Gus Wilson
HI Gus, you heard correct! It's in a different format this year - fourball betterball and I'm playing with Rory against Padraig and Shane Lowry so it should be a brilliant day! Cheers, Darren.
Darren, That bonefish photographed very well! Cool. Rory McIllroy-is it two l's?, was amazing at the weekend. What has been your most significant win to date? Awaiting that bit of magic when you storm to another victory even if it means that Lee comes second and Rory comes third! Happy fishing, Joan Sweeney
Hi Joan, glad you like the new pics! Was a brilliant holiday. McIlroy has just one L not two - and yes he just did so well at Quail Hollow! As for the most significant win I don't think I can really answer that one but the most significant shot I've ever hit was making contact with the ball on the first tee in the Ryder Cup at the K Club in Ireland - that has to be my most significant golfing moment ever! All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren, strange question I know, but I was wondering what your favourite cigars are, and where you buy them? ps. the Bob Rotella books are an outstanding read.... and EXTREMELY helpful. Steven Poolton
Hi Steven, my all time favourite cigars are Hoyo de Monterrey Double Coronas and I usually buy them in Harrods in London. Rotella's books are brilliant! Cheers, Darren.
I haven't seen Darren too much on the PGA tour, so I was curious as to what he has been up to.....my company belonged to firestone country club, and the guys who work there always said nice things about the way you treat everybody. that is what i expected because you appear to be a very friendly pro athlete.....nice to see....too many prima donnas over here.....I wish you the best.
Hi Earl, thanks for the message. I've not been playing in the US of late - my current world ranking position doesn't get me in to the WGC's or the Majors so have been concentrating on the European Tour which has been going quite well. I'm currently on a family holiday in the Bahamas which is great - the fishing here is awesome. Hope to be back there in the US some time soon and hopefully can earn myself a place at Firestone. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I'm very interested in the mental side of the game so I was wondering how you prepare, play and review your game, especially matchplay competitions. I've a number of matchplay events scheduled this year and want to be in top form both physically and mentally! Regards, Keith Haynes
Hi Keith, the best piece of advice that I can give you is to take a look at Bob Rotella's books - they're absolutely brilliant and tell you in detail how to deal with situations that you may come across. I hope you do well in your matches. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I am the Captain of Whiston Hall Golf Club, Staffordshire and I was asked to Tap Dance on the Tee when I turned up in my new shoes. I was wondering if you would please give me some advice on what to use to clean them, they are DCC Leather Golf Shoes with Black Wingtip. I am hoping you get picked for the Ryder cup team. They are a great shoe! Thank you if you can help. Kind Regards, Phil.
Hi Philip, thanks for the message and glad you like the shoes - you certainly have excellent taste! There's no special care needed really, they just need to be treated the same as a normal pair of leather street shoes. Just clean them and dry them after every round and then use a good polish. Hopefully I will be playing my way into the Ryder Cup team this year and not relying on getting picked. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, I am 13 and I play off a 13 handicap, I have a great short game but one thing that holds me back is my distance, I was wondering if there was any tips you could give me to help me hit the ball further?
Hi Diarmuid, well that's a pretty good handicap to have at 13 years old so well done! Glad to hear that your short game's in good shape - that makes such a difference to scores. I think your distance will increase with age really and it's not something to be overly concerned about - but do remember that hitting it a good distance comes with a good rhythym and tempo and I'd just keep working on that. Another tip is to try and make your backswing as compact as possible and then you have more power going through the shot. Good luck, Darren.
Darren, I had the pleasure of following you around yesterday in the Dubai Desert Classic. I was puzzled to see you use a pitching wedge for putting in the last few holes - what was the reason for this? DARREN
Hi Darren, as you noticed I was using the lob wedge to putt with for the last few holes on the Saturday of Dubai - my frustration got the better of me on the 12th after missing yet another 8 footer and I'm ashamed to say that I bent the shaft so was unable to continue using it for the rest of the round. All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren, Just wanted to say well done on last weeks performance and lets hope 2010 is a vintage year for you. It was great to see you back competing for a title and you have certainely inspired me to get my clubs out again after the miserable snowy weather we have been having.You still get my £10 each way bet every time you compete, so thanks for last week and here's to a lot more success in 2010. And just to let you know at the end of the year I will send half of any winnings I make through 2010 to The Darren Clarke Foundation. I hope thats ok. Best wishes, Mark Freeman
Hi Mark, I really enjoyed being in the mix in Joburg last week and the final hole eagle lifted me into a tie for second and I was really happy with that. That's a really generous offer of yours and I'll have to make sure that your wagers have some good returns! I really appreciate that very kind gesture - as you know the money from the Foundation is split between encouraging and promoting junior golf and breast cancer charities so the causes are really worthy. Thanks again, Darren.
Hi Darren! Just wondering what is the biggest trout you have caught? Also i was looking at your pics and you caught a bone fish, Where was this and was it with a fly? Also have you been fishing with anyone else on the tour and if so who? Well done in Joburg, nice early ryder cup position! Thank Peter
Hi Peter, the biggest brownie that I've caught is 14lb - nice! The Bonefish that I caught was off Abaco in The Bahamas and it was most certainly caught with a fly. A good few of the tour pros also fish but I do most of my fishing with my great friend Keith Maxwell who is the club pro at Sunningdale and we really enjoy ourselves. I've got a trip coming up in Florida in May to do some Tarpon fishing and I can't wait - should be very exciting. All the best, Darren.
Not so much a question Darren, more of a 'Good Luck' message for 2010 mate. I've see you play many times and I know along with many others that there is still a few Majors left it that swing of yours. Best Wishes to you and your boys mate and thanks for the future entertainment when you lift another Major trophy. Regards Simon Eyre and Joanne my wife who thinks your lovely??? Should have gone to Specsavers!! Only joking. Take Care.
Hi Simon, thanks for the message and I certainly feel that there's a good chance of a Major - not too far away I hope! Joanne obviously has seriously good taste!!! All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren, Where and when was your best round of competitive golf? Every good wish for 2010. Joan
Hi Joan, very Happy New Year to you! I shot 60 in the 2nd round of the Smurfit European Open at the K Club in 1999, I ended up finishing tied 2nd and my good mate Lee Westwood won the title! All the best, Darren.
Mr. Clarke, This is not a question, but I just wanted to thank you for being who you are and a great character in the game of golf. Your attitude and style has done wonders for my confidence over the last few years since I've been following you and I know 2010 is going to be a great year for you. Hope to see you play and shake your hand one day. All the best with you and your family. Steve Hansen Canada
Hi Steve, thanks for the message. I never really think of myself as an inspiration to people so it's extremely flattering when I receive messages such as yours. I also feel confident about 2010 and am really looking forward to the start of my year in South Africa in early January. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Kind Regards, Darren.
Hi Darren, Unlucky not to reach the top 60. Although the good news is your game seems to be in good shape. Keep it up and it will not be an issue next year. Freddie
Hi Freddie, thank you for the message. I feel that my golf is in good shape and whilst I was just one spot out of the top 60 this year I fully intend to be right in there next year! Cheers, Darren.
I notice that yourself and a lot of the European players wear slacks that have a split (or V) in the side of the leg. I would love to know where to get these as my son and I wear very large golf shoes and I believe the split would allow for more comfort. Thank you very much.
Hi there John, these trousers are great and Tony the Tailor makes them for us. His website is www.qaja.co.uk - if you look on there you'll find all you need to know! Regards, Darren
Hi Darren, obviously I'm a huge fan. I have been reading your book that you wrote with Dr Karl Morris - Golf The Mind Factor. It has improved my game alot. But one of the things I struggle with, like many golfers, is consistancy. I'm 15, play off 25, and I already want to perfect my game! Because of this, I feel that I am over analysing my swing :"Is my left arm too straight?", "Should my right knee be bending like this?" I'm not sure whether this is refraining me from playing well. Good luck! Luke Stockil
Hi Luke, glad you're enjoying the book and it's working for you. I think your over analysis of your swing is definitely stopping you from improving. If you've got to 25 you've made some progress with your game so I reckon you should just chill out a bit, relax and stop thinking too much! Good luck, Darren.
Hi Darren. It's great to see you playing again in the Majors. I would like to know who decides who plays with you in the Pro-Ams and in the Dunhill Links Championship. Also do the players need to have an official handicap to play on those days? Best Wishes, Graeme McVea.
Hi Graeme, I must admit I wish I'd done better in the majors but was cheered up by finishing well in Holland last week. As far as the Pro-Ams go, generally speaking it's done at random but if a player has one of their sponsors putting a team in the European Tour will arrange for their player to be with their team. In the Dunhill Links it's the same story really and all amateurs do need to have a bona fide handicap to play in these events. Regards, Darren.
Hi Darren, I met you at Moyvalley Ireland and I think your an incredible golfer. I recently won my home club captains prize and got cut to 15 from 13. I have trouble with my long irons. Any advice??? Keep up the good work for cancer and on tour!! Are you playing the Portugal Masters. Can't wait to see both you and Lee in action again. All the best. Dermot Finn.
Hi Dermot, well done on winning your Captain's Prize! With your long irons the key is to try and keep a smooth swing and good rhythm - a lot of people try and hit them too hard and this makes for a bad swing so just concentrate on your tempo. I will be playing in the Portugal Masters and am really looking forward to the event. Good luck with your golf. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, Good to see some consistency with your game at Firestone, well done. I play at Huntingdale in Melbourne which has some 95 bunkers. Unfortunately I know them all too well and have found getting out of them becoming more difficult and destroying a lot of good rounds. I fluctuate between 18 - 21 and feel this part of my game is killing me!! Can you please give me something that may help my mindset while addressing the ball in a bunker. (other than to stay out of them)!! Good luck next week. many thanks, Gordon Smyth
Hi Gordon, thanks for the message - was pleased with my performance at Firestone - obviously my pre-tournament warm up of lying on the beach for a couple of weeks did the trick!! In the bunker try not to hit the ball - simply swing the club so that you remove the sand from underneath the ball and then it will come out automatically. Remember not to hit AT the ball instead make sure you swing through to a good finish. Good luck, hope it helps. Cheers, Darren.
Hi Darren, Will you clear something up for me! watching the golf from Turnberry last week, I saw two of the players being given a blue card (which I take to be a score card?) just before their tee off. They then exchanged these cards, will you tell me why, do you keep each other's score or just your own and who is responsible for the card during and after your roundt? - By the way I cannot help but admire all you do for Cancer research and the brilliant job you are doing bringing up your boys. Parenting is the hardest job in the world and to combine it with a tough golfing schedule - hats off to you!! take care, Anne. ps; throughly enjoyed walking the course at Loch Lomond watching you play!
Hi there Anne, what happens with the scorecards is the following:- You're right in what you say - each player is given their own card to start with and then they exchange cards so we mark each other's cards. Ultimately the player is responsible for their own card (which the other player has marked) and at the completion of the round we check these carefully and then sign for the score which is then countersigned by the other player that it is correct. So hope that sorts out that little query for you! I count myself really lucky to be in my job and also have two wonderful sons to look after - it can be tricky juggling it all around but it seems to work pretty well and I do have a couple who help too! Glad you enjoyed Loch Lomond. Regards, Darren.
Hi Darren, My son has been a keen golfer for a few years having been through an academy with a view to eventually turning pro. However, he's been having a really rough patch lately and his handicap has risen from 3 to 5. He's thinking of jacking it all in! Is there any advice you can give him? He doesn't have a regular coach now which probably doesn't help. Many thanks for any advice and all the very best of luck!
Hi there Caroline, I'm really sorry to hear that your lad is down in the dumps about his golf. I know the feeling!!! Things will always get better for him - all golfers whether pro or amateur suffer from downturns in their game now and again and you just really have to keep on encouraging him and he'll eventually play his way out of it. I think that perhaps a few lessons with a coach would have serious benefits, even if it just makes him more confident. If he's been down to 3 then he knows what he's doing out there so tell him from me just to keep plugging away and it'll come right in the end. Never give up! All the best, Darren.
Hi Darren - sorry not a question more of a statement really. My son, Conor , and I had the pleasure of walking the back 9 in Paris with you and it was a real treat. We live in France now, having left Norn Iron in 2004, and are both big fans of you. I often tell Conor (aged 15 and off 19) to never quit no matter how bad a shot he's played and you played a fantastic recovery shot on the 12th with very little green to work with. I congratulated you at the time and Conor and I talked about it for ages. It great to see you back at yourself big man. Good luck to you Tyrone and Conor. Paul & Conor Campbell
Hi Paul, thanks so much for the message - I definitely feel that things are back on track now! Glad you both enjoyed Paris and wish Conor all the best with his golf. Kind regards, Darren.
Hi, Darren, I was wondering how you got all your sponsors. Do you like using Taylormade and if you could change. What would you change it to. Good Luck in the years to come. Graham
Hi Graham, my management company, ISM, arrange all my sponsorship deals for me which is great. I really think TaylorMade are the best clubs for me and have no intention of changing to anything else in the foreseeable future. Regards, Darren.
Hi Darren is your game good enough to make the Masters at the moment, and tell me is the R9 any good or just a gimick.
Hi David, the R9 is a seriously good club and most certainly not a gimmick - definitely worth a try. My game is in good shape at the moment and the only way I have to the Masters is for a seriously good finish in Houston next week. Regards, Darren.
Darren, First off, great golfing in last week's Tavistock Cup. I am still asking myself how your team lost! I recently read your interview in Golf Magazine. I loved the line that at the end of the round, you shake your opponent's hand, then go grab a pint with them. The underlying theme was to keep it respectfulful. I just wanted to let you know that the interview was great. Most of all, good luck in 2009. From what I have seen, you have been playing great golf. I hope it carries over for big showings in the majors. Will we be seeing you at Augusta? Nick Paden, Lincoln NE
Hi Nick, not quite sure myself how we lost! But anyway it was a great couple of days which I really enjoyed. Glad you liked the interview in Golf Magazine! The only way for me into the Masters now is for a seriously good performance in Houston and that's what I'll be working towards. Cheers, Darren
Hi Darren. I was wondering what your caddy does when you are not playing a tournament. Is he able to get another bag or does he wait until you are playing again? Best Wishes, Graeme McVea
Hi Graeme, generally speaking caddies take the same weeks off that we do so they can also get some rest time. Some of the caddies do occasionally take up another player's bag if it suits them when their regular player is taking time out. Cheers, Darren
Hi Darren. I was watching you playing in The Tavistock Cup last week and I was wondering how you got to play in it? Do you play in it every year or is it by invitation.
Hi Graeme, The Tavistock Cup's a great event that's been going for a few years now and basically it's played between the touring pro's that are members at Isleworth and Lake Nona and it's done on an invite basis. It was such good fun this year as all the gallery who were members of the clubs wore the same colours as the players and it was a real spectacle! Regards, Darren.
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