The fact is, I've always felt more British than Irish. Maybe it was the way I was brought up, I don't know, but I have always felt more of a connection with the U.K. than with Ireland.

Everything is firing on all cylinders for me.

I'm afraid there are no replays or second chances in amateur or professional golf, and that's the way it should be.

My dad's a scratch golfer and I've got the knack of seeing something and then replicating it. I saw my dad swing a club and I worked out how to do the same thing. My backswing and follow-through have been basically the same since I was two.

The Open is the one that we all want and strive for and to be able to hold this Claret Jug is an incredible feeling. To be three legs towards the career grand slam at the age of 25 is a pretty good achievement. It's not going to sink in for a while.

Because I lived so close to the school and walked there every day, I used to enjoy the school bus trips.

The next time I cry about golf it will only be with joy. It's not worth crying over golf for any other reason. After all, it's only a game.