Lowry: Irish Open’s decision to allow pictures to be taken is ‘ridiculous’

Shane Lowry admits he cannot understand the reasons for allowing spectators at the Irish Open to take pictures with mobile phones.

The practice is usually frowned upon at tournaments due to the ease in which players can be distracted by the clicking of equipment during their backswing. However, organisers of this week’s event at Portstewart have made a special point of allowing it, with a prize of £500 on offer for the best picture.

It means the players being followed by the galleries are more likely to fall victim to a spectator mistiming a picture and as a home player, Lowry will be amongst those attracting the bigger crowds.

The 30-year-old has admitted his frustration at the situation, conceding he is worried it could affect him and his compatriots’ chances of glory.

“I think that’s just ridiculous,” he told reporters. “There’s going to be carnage this week for myself and the other Irish guys.

“What a bad week to trial something like that. There’s going to be 20,000-25,000 people out on the course.

“Statistically, there’s going to be a certain percentage of those people who won’t have their phones on silent. They’re going to use it anyway.”

Tagged Irish Open, Shane Lowry