Padraig Harrington: “Par 3s are always my favourite golf holes”

Ryder Cup captain Padraig Harrington.

Three-time major winner and Ryder Cup captain Padraig Harrington shares his favourite golf hole, favourite golf club, favourite holiday location and the best golf shot he’s ever hit…

When did you first shoot under par?

I was probably 15 years old, but I can’t remember where.

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What has been your career highlight?

Winning my first Major has got to be my highlight (the 2007 Open at Carnoustie).

What about the best shot of your golf career?

The chip shot on the 72nd hole at Carnoustie, which saved me suffering a double bogey.

One mulligan you wish you could have?

I drove one into the bunker at the 72nd hole in the 2002 Open at Muirfield, bogeyed the hole and ended up missing a play-off by a shot.

What’s your favourite golf course?

A toss-up between Royal Portrush and Augusta.

Favourite UK golf course?

Royal Portrush, with Portmarnock a close second.

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Favourite golf holes in the world?

It will always come down to a par 3 so we’ll go with the Postage Stamp at Troon and maybe the 12th at Augusta National.

Best view in golf?

It’s always pretty nice inside the ropes looking out! Standing on the 8th fairway at Pebble Beach is pretty spectacular.

Favourite club in the bag?

I’ve got a really nice 4-iron at the moment. It’s a Wilson FG Tour V4 and I love it, it’s doing a great job.

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Sportsman who you look up to?

I was a goalkeeper so Pat Jennings was my hero growing up.

And sportswoman?

Boxing champion Katie Taylor, who is a hero in Ireland.

Any superstitions?

No, and I try to do everything I can to avoid them, though I understand people who use them to their advantage.

Not-to-be-missed TV show?

I’ll go for Big Bang Theory.

Where do you go for your holidays?

Sandy Lane, Barbados.

Who is your best mate on Tour?

I would say my caddie Ronan Flood – we’ve been together about a dozen years. Player-wise it would be Shane Lowry.

Favourite movie?

I watch a lot and it changes all the time. Nothing stands out though.

Favourite musician or band?

Probably U2.

Favourite sports team?

All the Irish national teams, and I still follow Sunderland’s results.

Who’d be in your dream fourball?

It would have to be with three of my four brothers. The other one doesn’t play so that sorts that out!

And your dream pro fourball?

I’d love to see Hogan in his heyday, Snead in his heyday and I’d probably include Arnie Palmer because I haven’t much idea about how he played.

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