Irish award for Clarke

Darren Clarke has jumped to 11th in the world rankings

Darren Clarke's success in the NEC Invitational has helped earn him the top annual award from the Irish Golf Writers' Association.

Clarke won the August tournament by four shots, banking a handsome £650,000 first prize cheque.

It was the highlight of a fine year for the 35-year-old from Dungannon.

In April, Clarke led the Masters by four strokes after the opening round.

During 2003, Clarke's new fitness regime helped him jump from 23rd to 11th in the world rankings.

It is the fourth time the Ryder Cup star has won the Irish golfer of the year award.

Walker Cup captain Garth McGimpsey is to receive the association's distinguished services award.

The Bangor man led the Britain and Ireland team to a third consecutive Wakler Cup triumph over the United States.

McGimpsey played international team golf for 20 years, winning a record number of Irish caps.

Noel Fox of Portmarnock was voted men's amateur player of the year and Claire Coughlan of Cork won the women's award.