Despite the double distraction of noisy aircraft and maybe some nosy nudists, Shane Lowry is singularly focussed on performing well in the Andalucian Open.
Busy Malaga Airport can be seen from most parts of the Parador Malaga course but for those competing in the Miguel Angel Jimenez hosted event what they don’t want to see is any private parts on display on the beach immediately behind the practice range and 12th tee.
Shane Lowry gets some help on his short game from Peter Cowen
That was the scenario last year when an elderly male stood behind the high wire fence separating the beach from the course in nothing but his birthday suit.
Lowry was on the range for the better part of yesterday (WED) as a reserve for the Pro-Am and with legendary coach, Peter Cowen offering the Esker Hills star some short-game tips.
But after missing the halfway cut with scores of 72 and 79 on his return from injury last week in Sicily, Lowry is quietly confident of an improved showing in Spain.
“Last week my game felt a long way away but the game has come around quite quick and I’m really looking forward to this week,” said Lowry.
“Also there is a radiologist here working in the fitness van this week and he took a scan of my arm and has given it the okay so the body is back to 100% fit.
“I feel too if I work hard enough I can make-up for some lost time, and also the aspirations this year is to put myself into contention a couple of times.
“Of course, I do want to win again but I’m not going to say that’s the main goal.”
Lowry is among six Irish competing in Spain but with most interest to centre around Jimenez and Spanish compatriots Alvaro Quiros and Jose Maria Olazabal.
