Sport

Funk to return to links for Irish Open

When the decision was taken to switch the Nissan Irish Open from its traditional date three weeks before the British Open to …

Philip Reid Golf Correspondent
Mon Mar 31 2003 - 01:00

When the decision was taken to switch the Nissan Irish Open from its traditional date three weeks before the British Open to one immediately afterwards, it was hoped that its proximity to the season's third major would tempt a number of American stragglers to remain on in Europe a week longer to play in the tournament.

And when Portmarnock was named as the host venue for the first time since 1990, it was hoped that the attrac\tion of playing one of the world's top links courses would act as a further appeal to those contemplating playing.

Well, the first indication that the policy has worked is that Fred Funk, ranked number 28 in the official world rankings, has indicated a desire to play in this year's Irish Open, which takes place on 24th-27th. In fact, Funk, who so enjoyed his debut appearance in the event last year at Fota Island, when he finished tied-23rd, intends to include the Irish Open on his schedule as the third part of a run in Europe.

Funk, who has won in excess of $12 million on the US Tour, and who has five wins in a career spanning two decades, plans to play in the Scottish Open, the British Open and finish off the sequence with a visit to Portmarnock for the Irish Open.

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The American enjoyed one of his most successful seasons last year, claiming seven top-10 finishes - including four second places - and winning over $2.3 million in prizemoney. However, he had a disappointing time at Sawgrass and yesterday completed his Players' championship with a 74 for 289, giving him a finishing position of tied-47th.

Colin Montgomerie, meanwhile, has decided to end his miserable stint on the US Tour by opting out of this week's BellSouth Classic and heading home for a week away from tournament play.

Montgomerie, who missed the cut at the Players', has endured a terrible time since commencing a six-week sequence of tournaments in the US at the Los Angeles Open. In all that time, he failed to break 70 and has struggled mainly with his putting.

Instead of heading on to Atlanta for the BellSouth, Montgomerie will spend some family time at home in England before returning for the US Masters next week.

One man's loss is another's gain, however, and Montgomerie's decision not to take up the invitation in Atlanta has enabled former British Open champion Paul Lawrie to fill in for him.