Tue, Oct 06, 2009 - Page 19 News List

World No. 1 Lorena Ochoa returns to winning ways

AFP , PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA

Donald, just inside the top 100 after his opening 72 at Carnoustie, has a Scottish father and donned a pair of Tartan trousers for the day.

“I’m glad I played well because you have to when you wear something this outrageous,” Donald said. “I thought five or six birdies would be good, but I went a few better.”

He had nine in all and was particularly pleased with those on the 16th and 17th. He had gone in the water to bogey the short 15th, but pitched to eight feet on the next and then, despite his drive finishing in a divot, hit a seven iron to 12 feet.

His last victory was the Honda Classic in Florida in March 2006 and his last success in Europe came more than five years ago.

Donald also took the opportunity on Sunday to hit out at a US journalist who coined the phrase “Luke Donald Disease” this year, claiming the British player was the best example of a get-rich-quick golfer lacking the drive to fulfill his potential.

“I don’t think I’ve ever met the guy,” Donald said. “If I did, I would say I didn’t really appreciate it and that I felt it was extremely off the mark. It was slightly hurtful. I like having stuff named after me, but not a disease. I have a great desire and I want to be as successful as I can. I certainly don’t turn up thinking about how much money I can make.”

Darren Clarke three-putted the last, but his 67 gave him a share of fourth place with Michael Hoey, Richie Ramsay and Rafael Cabrera-Bello.

Meanwhile, one-legged Manuel De Los Santos, playing with Richard Bland, missed the team cut by one shot on 20-under.

De Los Santos said: “I didn’t make the cut, but I am not disappointed because I have had the most fantastic week. I am also overwhelmed with the support I have received from both the spectators and the professionals. For Lee Westwood to say I am an inspiration to him is just unbelievable.”

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