Graeme McDowell wrapped-up his defence of RBC Heritage Classic with a last round round 70 on the Harbor Town Golf Links course at Hilton Head, South Carolina.
However in a week that commenced with a huge bang for McDowell at Monday’s opening ceremony ended with McDowell sharing 23rd place on two under par and eight shots behind American Matt Kuchar.
McDowell, who posted three birdies and two bogeys, will take a fortnight’s break before teeing up next in the May 8th starting $10m Players Championship.
And despite his no frills defense it was clear McDowell has been a popular champion as he was warmly applauded all about the course and then mobbed after his round for autographs along with giving away his signed cap, glove and balls.
“It’s been a great week and I’ve enjoyed being defending champion but I’ve now got a couple of weeks off and some work to do but it’s close, very close,” he said.
“This event has such a great feel to it but obviously the weather hasn’t been all that kind to us this week.
“But in saying my game just wasn’t firing on all cylinders but then I actually hit the ball a lot better the last two-and-a-half rounds, so all in all I am happy with that first third of my season.”
Waiting for McDowell was his expectant wife and his own parents before they packed the car and took the drive west along State Highway 278 and then south on I-95 to Orlando.
Graeme McDowell signs autographs for the walking scorers with the iconic Hilton Head lighthouse (It’s not an active lighthouse) in the background (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
Defending champion Graeme McDowell very popular with the Hilton Head fans. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)
Graeme McDowell loses his cap, glove and golf balls to three young girls who followed him around all week. (Photo – www.golfbtyourmiss.com)
