Harrington plans title raid at Iskandar Johor Open
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Ryder Cup star Padraig Harrington aims to secure a winning debut at the US$1.25 million Iskandar Johor Open to end a frustrating two-year winless run.
The Irishman has not tasted victory since lifting his third Major at the PGA Championship in 2008 but with the euphoria of winning the Ryder Cup two weeks ago still running high, he intends to shine at the Horizon Hills Golf and Country Club.
Harrington will face a top field starting tomorrow as the Asian Tour event includes title holder K.J. Choi of Korea, 2008 winner Retief Goosen of South Africa, Europe's Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie of Scotland, current Order of Merit leader Noh Seung-yul of Korea and Malaysia's Danny Chia.
"I've had plenty of top-10s but I haven't won a tournament and it is all about winning tournaments. I've got about five more events (this year) and I'm anxious to get at least a win which will make my Christmas better," said Harrington today.
The world number 22, who has won 22 titles around the world including in Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei, said he needs to preserve his energy if he is to sparkle in the humidity in Malaysia.
"There is definitely a euphoric feeling after you win and you definitely carry that through. But also from having such a high, there is a little low afterwards … certainly physically and mentally I was very tired last week (playing the Alfred Dunhill Links)."
"The key to doing well is to make sure I don't over do it in the heat. I like what I see. The course is very good, the greens are immaculate. In the 14 years coming over for the co-sanctioned events, the Asian Tour has really grown. There is no discernable difference between the co-sanctioned events and no discernable difference between a European Tour event. Everything about it looks like it's going to be a world-class event," he said.
Goosen, a double US Open champion, has put together an impressive season with 11 top-10s around the world and the only thing missing is a victory. But he knows he must battle hard if he is to repeat his 2008 success at the Iskandar Johor Open. Last year, he finished tied third.
"It doesn't matter where you play these days … you have to play your best golf. The trophy is not going to get handed to you. This week, you have to grind it out," said the cool South African who is nicknamed "The Goose."
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