GRAEME McDOWELL starts the defence of the Andalucia Masters title at Valderrama today admitting he has “a bit of a love-hate relationship” with the Spanish course.
The Ryder Cup hero said on his website: “I love how special a place it is, but hate how tough it can be.
“When the wind is up, well, good luck. But I like that challenge – it’s a grafter’s course.”
After a 2010 he will never forget – as well as being Europe’s match-winner he won twice on this side of the Atlantic and twice in America, including the US Open – McDowell has yet to taste success this year.
“Let’s see if I can finish 2011 on a high,” he adds. “I’m feeling fit, ready and happy with my game. I still feel a strong finish to the season is in me.”
This week is the start of a spell that will see the 32-year-old Northern Irishman also compete in China, Singapore, Japan, South Africa and Dubai.
Sergio Garcia tees off as favourite following his remarkable 11-stroke, 27-under-par victory in his home Castello Masters last weekend.
But there are also world number six Martin Kaymer and 17th-ranked Justin Rose in the field this time.
Garcia has been a runner-up three times at Valderrama. Indeed no Spanish player has ever won there since the first Volvo Masters was staged in 1988.
Local favourite Miguel Angel Jimenez, who lost a play-off to Tiger Woods in the 1999 American Express world championship, told europeantour.com: “Valderrama is an unforgiving course and you need to hit great shots with all the clubs in the bag.
“I’m striking the ball great, but not scoring my best. I haven’t had a win yet this season, so it’s high time to start.”
The winner of the title earns the final place in next week’s HSBC Champions in Shanghai.
McDowell, Rose, Kaymer and Jimenez are already in the field, but Garcia’s first win for almost three years made him only ninth reserve and that gives him an added incentive.
