Darren Clarke launched the Ryder Cup trophy tour from Royal Portrush Golf Club in his native Northern Ireland on Tuesday (12th April) , and the European captain had a spring in his step.

SOUNDBITE (English) Darren Clarke, Europe Ryder Cup captain

"It's basically - the Ryder Cup is such an iconic trophy that people don't get an opportunity that often to see it. The Ryder Cup tour will be starting off here in Portrush and going to Belfast tomorrow and then moving into continental Europe. A lot of people havce watched the Ryder Cup on television so to actually get the chance to get their picture taken with it. And it'll hopefully lead to a little bit more interest and a little bit more support. We need every bit of support we can get when we get over there to Hazeltine."

SOUNDBITE (English) Darren Clarke, Europe Ryder Cup captain

"Last week in Augusta was a great week for the European Tour. I think obviously with Danny (Willett) coming through and the fashion in which it happened is huge. Lee (Westwood) up there - playing better again. Matt Fitzpatrick coming through. Justin (Rose) up there. So many Europeans up there in that top 10. That was wonderful. And brilliant and I am delighted for them all. But, again, there is a long way to go. On a personal level, they all did great. But there's a long way to go yet before the team is finalised."