It's a big enough deal when an Irishman wins his country's Open, but simply fantastic when an Irish amateur does it.
Step forward Shane Lowry to receive the acclaim of all Ireland and anybody else who was watching his amazing performance in typically Irish conditions.
What I found interesting was how having gone out in the front nine looking tight and nervous and losing the lead, he looked calm and comfortable when chasing. He hit a series of great shots coming down the stretch and deserved his day of glory which included a champagne soaking from former teammate Rory McIlroy.
It puts him in a unique position where he can turn professional any time in the next 32 months and be exempt for the rest of the time. It actually won't be an easy decision as to the timing of it.
Not just far behind Shane in Baltray was Chris Wood, whom we had managed to secure an invite for and did everybody proud - finishing 10th and picking up €55,000, the biggest cheque of his pro career. It can not be a coincidence that he performed so well in the kind of conditions he encountered when finishing top 10 as an amateur in the Open at Royal Birkdale.
Talking of The Open, I noticed when we were sorting out our accommodation for Turnberry that we already have 12 players qualified to play - four more than our previous best. It just shows how many of our young golfers are beginning to realise their potential.
This week at Wentworth will be the last for The Tour to play on the much-maligned Burma Road greens. After the BMW PGA Championship they are all going to be dug up and re-designed by Ernie Els. I'm sure he will do a great job and he definitely won't be able to have any excuses for a missed putt.
Over to the cricketers and congratulations to Graham Onions not only on his performances for England, but also in electing to join our team. I'm sure he will play a big part in what promises to be a very exciting Ashes summer ahead.
At the other end, Andrew Flintoff is currently in Portugal continuing his re-hab after a recent knee operation. I'm sure he will be fully fit and ready to face the Aussies which is great news for us and not so great for the visitors.
