It’s said that you can never lose in a two-horse race when you have divided loyalties so Darren Clarke’s win in Mallorca at the weekend was a fantastic way for the Ulsterman to show that over 40 does not mean over the hill.

But there always has to be a loser and as delighted as I am for Darren, I did feel for Chris Wood in his bid for a first European title.

Both Darren and Chris are workaholics when it comes to golf and while one will feel that his efforts have been somewhat rewarded after going three years without a win, the other will wonder when his graft will get its reward.

I honestly believe that it will come sooner rather than later for Chris, who is an exceptional talent. 

For Darren, what a tonic after everything he has been through, but I noticed at Christmas when he got engaged that he seemed as content and happy than he had been for many years.  I expected him to take that on to the course and finally it all came good for him.

I think win number 13 in Europe will actually prove lucky for him because I expect him to build on this and once again emerge onto the big stage and win more events.

Chris will share that stage for many more years and his first win is only a matter of time.

Congratulations also to Thomas Aiken after being able to re-focus so soon after his maiden European Tour victory.  Thomas followed his win in Spain with a top 10 finish in Mallorca.

Darren’s win means we have now had nine European successes out of the last 19 starts in Europe... and the last three in a row.  We’re heading for a record year.

Finally congratulations to France on being awarded the 2018 Ryder Cup.