Portrush pointers: John Daly to walk the course

The Open gets underway at Portrush on July 18, with golf’s leading names all set to participate.

From John Daly walking the course to Darren Clarke’s knowledge being in demand, there is plenty happening.

Sportsmail’s DEREK LAWRENSON runs through all the pointers from Portrush… 

DALY VOWS TO WALK THROUGH THE PAIN 

How interesting that, after the Royal and Ancient refused John Daly’s request for a buggy and told him to take a walk if he wants to play in the Open, the American has now decided that he is fit enough, after all, to give it a go next week.

‘We believe that walking the course is an integral part of the championship and is central to the traditions of links golf,’ said the R&A, in a statement with which few right-thinking golfers would disagree.

Daly, 53, has osteoarthritis in his knee and was granted permission to use a buggy at the US PGA Championship in May, to the consternation of virtually everyone else in the field. ‘Fingers crossed, I can make it through the pain at Portrush,’ pronounced Daly, in a tweet that cried out for a couple of emoji violins.

John Daly is not allowed to use a buggy at Portrush but has confirmed he will walk the course

DARREN’S IN DEMAND 

Darren Clarke’s Portrush diary this week: Monday and Tuesday — golf with Matt Wallace. Wednesday — 18 holes with Adam Scott. Thursday — a round with Justin Rose. 

Pencilled in — golf with Ian Poulter. The Northern Irishman has always been one of the most popular players on tour, but one suspects there might be another reason why his mates are suddenly all so keen to enjoy the company of the Portrush oracle.

SHARVIN FALLS SHORT

It seemed too good to be true when Cormac Sharvin moved into position for one of the three Open spots on offer at the Irish Open with 18 holes to play. Sharvin, 26, is from Northern Ireland and plays most of his golf on the second-tier Challenge Tour. He was only in the field as a sponsor’s invite. Alas, as so often, reality showed up in the final round to brush romance aside as he missed out with a closing level-par 70.

Still, a cheque for £35,000 following a top 15 finish, comfortably the biggest of his career and one that almost precisely doubled his season’s earnings, had to count for something. ‘Yeah, I’m disappointed at the moment, but that’s always a bonus, I guess,’ he said.

Cormac Sharvin came agonisingly close to securing a place at the Open this week

OH BROTHER, EDOARDO

Another with a hard luck story was Edoardo Molinari, who’s desperate to get into the Open and play alongside his brother, defending champion Francesco. At the Irish Open, he closed with a final round 66 to miss out by just two shots on one of the three precious exemption spots. 

‘Of course it was on my mind,’ he said ruefully, after going so close. ‘I’m desperate to be there and see him defend the Claret Jug.’ 

Here again, a six-figure cheque was a decent consolation prize for the elder sibling, who’s showing some form after battling back from a series of injuries. The 38-year-old will have one more chance to earn a Portrush place at the Scottish Open this week.

Edoardo Molinari may miss out on joining brother Francesco at Portrush after falling short