CLARKE WARMS UP FOR LOUGH ERNE CHALLENGE WITH McMANUS WIN Dungannon man hits form ahead of Enniskillen showdown

Darren Clarke claimed the top professional prize at the JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am at Adare Manor in Limerick on Tuesday, as he prepares for this month’s Lough Erne Challenge presented by Lakelands and Inland Waterways.

The 41-year-old opened with a round of 73 and secured his win with a brilliant second round of 68 to finish with a three under par, 141 aggregate. Clarke beat a strong field that featured 11 of the world’s top 15 golfers, including the World Number 1 .

Another Lough Erne Challenge competitor, , finished strongly at Adare Manor tying for third place with on one under par.

Following his win at Adare, Clarke is playing the at Loch Lomond in the hope of winning a British Open place on offer to the top five finishers not already exempt for next week's British Open at St Andrews. Clarke last won a European Tour event two years ago at the Dutch Open in 2008 but will look to change that this week.

After the St Andrews outing Clarke will team up with Rory McIlroy for the Lough Erne Challenge at Lough Erne Resort on Wednesday 21st July. The duo will form a Northern team to take on Lowry and three time Major champion Padraig Harrington who will be representing the .

Tickets

Tickets for the Lough Erne Challenge are on sale and can be purchased online through www.lougherneresort.com and www.platinumonegroup.com, from The Golf Shop at Lough Erne Resort or from one of the Ticket Offices (see website for ticket outlets). Tickets are priced at £30 for adults and £10 for under 16s. Corporate Hospitality and Accommodation packages are also available. See www.lougherneresort.com for further details or contact The Golf Shop T: +44 (0)28 6634 5728.

Ends

Further Information:

Johnny O’Shea, PLATINUM ONE: +353 87 6750059 [email protected]