…but that was the story told on Sunday as the big man from Dungannon walked strong and proud through the squalls, all the way up the final hole theatre at Royal St George’s to claim the greatest prize in golf.
At the age of 42, in the supposed twilight of a distinguished career, the Northern Irishman followed his countryman and one-time protege Rory McIlroy into the role call of major champions with a three‑shot victory. It was a victory for pure talent and for the Everyman.
In an era of the golfer athlete, Clarke is the cigar‑smoking, Guinness‑drinking proof there is more than one way to make history in this crazy game of ball and club.
The Open 2011: Darren Clarke Wins First Major At 42 (Lawrence Donegan, Guardian)
Masterful: McDowell, Clarke and Mcllroy.
Ireland’s Major Drought A Thing Of the Past (RTE)