GOLF: Darren Clarke's return to work may have come at the Irish Open – at least officially, after a five-week stint on the sidelines due to a groin injury – but European Tour chief executive George O'Grady had lauded the British Open champion's off-course work ethic in making the return of the tournament here such a major success.

When informed of O’Grady’s glowing tribute, Clarke modestly replied: “I was just trying to help them, that’s all. It was a very special occasion for the Irish Open to come to Royal Portrush. It’s been such a long time since it’s been up here and I just tried to help in whatever little way I could.”

At least Clarke, in making his first cut of the season, got some competitive rounds into his body in the build-up to his defence of the Claret Jug at Royal Lytham and St Annes in less than a month’s time. “It’s been one of those weeks where I’ve hit too many sloppy shots and paid the penalty for it. But, overall, I’m pleased with where my game is.”