Darren Clarke admitted he had St. Patrick’s Day in mind when he pulled on a pair of green trousers for the final round of the Valspar Championship in Tampa Bay.

In fact, Clarke was among three players spotted wearing the same Augusta National green coloured pants on day four.

Italy’s Matteo Manassero has been wearing the same coloured pants on a Sunday since turning pro and in memory of boyhood hero, Seve Ballesteros.

However Clarke’s Sunday splash of colour, and in an event where paint tins have been used as tee markers and the winner will be presented with unique a paint brush like trophy, failed to translate in bright scoring over the four days.

Darren Clarke shows off his new frame on the last day of the 2014 Valspar Championship. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

The Northern Irishman, who was also competing in the event for a first occasion, headed off to Orlando after rounds of 71, 74, 73 and 72 for a six over par total.

And when asked about his trousers Clarke responded:  “I’m getting in early for St. Pat’s Day’.

That prompted the question as to whether he would celebrate Ireland’s national day with a pint or two of the ‘black stuff’.

“Now Bernie.  Do you think with a figure now like mine that I would be drinking at all whether or not it may be St. Patrick’s Day tomorrow,” he said smiling.

Of course that probably translates to ‘Yes, I will be having a pint or two of Guinness’.

But then Clarke had good cause to be celebrating on Saturday night after Ireland’s dramatic victory in the Six Nations showdown against France in Paris winning 22-20.

“It was a brilliant result for Ireland and what a fitting end for Brian O’Driscoll to a remarkable career,” said Clarke.

“It was a fabulous match and I’m delighted for Brian and the whole team.”