G-Mac set for Turkey outing

Graeme McDowell is relishing the chance to make his debut in next month’s Turkish Airlines Open with Ryder Cup points up for grabs.

Qualification for the 2016 Ryder Cup is now very much on the agenda for players on both sides of the Atlantic, with the M2M Russian Open in early September signalling the start of Europe’s qualifying period.

The 2016 Made in Denmark tournament will be the final event at which Ryder Cup points are on offer for the Hazeltine showpiece, with Europe captain Darren Clarke then having three picks of his own to make up his dozen.

Northern Ireland’s McDowell will want to ensure that he does not need to get the nod from his compatriot and, with that in mind, the former US Open winner is keen for a decent showing in the first event of the 2015 Race to Dubai’s Final Series.

“We all have our own motivation and goals, but I think we all have to admit that The Ryder Cup crosses your mind,” he said. “I’ve heard a lot of good things about the tournament and can’t wait to see the set-up for myself.”

Rory McIlroy has committed to the event and he will be joined by the likes of Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood, while Clarke himself will make the trip to run the rule over his potential charges.

Tagged Darren Clarke, Graeme McDowell, Ryder Cup