Golf: Nick still on track for Ryder Cup bow

May 13 2008 by Richard Williamson, Liverpool Daily Post

Golfer Nick Dougherty _320

NICK DOUGHERTY remains on course to fulfil the family dream of making the Ryder Cup team.

The Liverpool golfer courageously opted to take part in last week’s Italian Open just two days after the funeral of his mother Ennis.

His top 10 finish was a testimony not only to his playing skills, but his mental resilience as well as he returned rounds of 71,66,67,67 for a 17-under-par total of 271.

Announcing his decision to play in Italy, Dougherty had explained: “As I am sure you can imagine it has been an extremely difficult time since mum passed away and all the messages of support have been gratefully received.

“After a lot of consideration I decided to follow mum’s wishes and continue with my tour schedule. Mum wanted me to do all I could to qualify for the Ryder Cup and I intend to do my best to do just that.”

Dougherty remains in one of the automatic qualifying positions for the team for September’s match against the Americans. As it stands today, the 10 automatic picks would be Lee Westwood, Henrik Stenson, Sergio Garcia, Justin Rose, Padraig Harrington, Robert Karlsson, Graeme McDowell, Dougherty, Miguel Angel Jimenez and Soren Hansen.

The Italian Open at Castello di Tolcinasco G & CC in Milan proved a successful one for the local contingent.

Warrington’s Phillip Archer finished a share of fourth on 21 under par after rounds of 70,64,65,68 for a 267 total while Bromborough’s Paul Waring also made the top 20 with rounds of 70,67,67,70 for 274 and a share of 17th. Lee Slattery (Formby Hall) came home in joint 30th after shooting 71,68,66,71 for 276.