It still a month away but Graeme McDowell is already looking forward to defending his RBC Heritage championship title.

McDowell spoke of his defence of the title during a conference call conducted on Monday ahead of returning to the Harbor Town course at Hilton Head Island in South Carolina.

It meant a subdued St. Patrick’s Day celebrations for McDowell who also gave up visiting his Nona Blue Tavern in suburban Orlando.

G Mac already looking forward to banking a second RBC Heritage victory. (Photo – www.pgatour.com)

“I’m having a very quiet St. Patrick’s Day for an Irishman today,” said McDowell.

“We had a pool party — very un-Irish. I’m a Florida boy these days, what can I say?

“We just chilled out and had some food. No green beer today, no Guinness, no swinging on the chandeliers, it’s a normal Monday of a tournament week for me, wishing I was sipping a few pints. Sounds like I should be in Savannah, Ga. right now.”

Victory around the alligator infested Harbor Town course was the first of three victories in 2013 for G Mac with his win in South Carolina his very first regular PGA Tour win.

McDowell had fought back from being four shots behind to win at the first playoff hole.

“I think guys love the golf course because it’s a test of time,” McDowell said.

“It’s a real traditional golf course. Not your typical 7,500 bombers’ paradise. It’s a real good golf course that tests every facet of the game. I think that’s why guys like it.”

McDowell’s off to a great start in 2014 with four top 10 finishes and earnings on the PGA Tour of over $1m in just five starts this season.

“You have to realize you’re on level par and last year means nothing,” said McDowell.

“You have to prepare the same way you always do and try to go out there and execute your game plan and hope things go well.”