San Antonio, Texas
It may have been Shane Lowry’s 26th birthday but World No. 2 Rory McIlroy was not handing out any on-course presents to Lowry during an 18-hole practice round today ahead of the Valero Texas Open.
McIlroy chipped-in twice to easily account for the reigning Portugal Masters champion.
It is the second week in a row McIlroy has accounted for Lowry in a Tuesday practice round after the pair played together last week ahead of the Shell Houston Open.
Shane Lowry tees off the par three 16th watched by coach, Neil Manchin (black shirt) and with Rory McIlroy on his mobile phone. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
“Rory’s got me again and good this time,” said Lowry when asked how their match proceeded.
“He only managed to just get me last week in Houston but he played really well today chipping in twice, so his game is really good.”
Accompanying Lowry was long-time coach, Neil Manchin who had travelled out from Ireland to be with Lowry.
And while there was no gifts from McIlroy, Manchin presented Lowry with the gift of a Gaelic football.
“I can’t believe Neil brought it all the way from Ireland here to Texas with him,” said Lowry.
“I know one thing for sure, you won’t find one in the shops over here.”
“But there’s a park beside Carton House where I can use it when I get back home.”
However Lowry did play a great second shot into the uphill and water guarded 18th.
“Those shots don’t mean anything on Tuesday,” said Lowry turning to some two dozen spectators who were applauding the shot.
And Lowry refused to entertain and thought of a bigger birthday present this Sunday night with victory earning him the last invitation into the Masters.
“No, not even thinking about that,” he said.
“It’s just one step and a time for me this week.”
Shane Lowry tees off the 17th and with Rory McIlroy again on this mobile phone. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
