"IN FACT I MAY NOT HAVE A DRINK FOR A WHILE"

By mustang6560 on 7/26/12

Following his victory in The Open Championship last year, Darren Clarke indulged his senses with a few beers (multiplied by a few beers). His post-major championship celebration even drew criticism by some in his home country.

Unlike Darren, Ernie Els, the 2012 Open Championship winner, celebrated without alcohol. The South African was once a heavy drinker, however, he decided two months before The Open to give up booze for a little while.

"We were having dinner one night a couple of months ago when Ernie suddenly announced: 'I'm not going to bother having a glass of wine tonight.'

"He said: 'In fact I may not have a drink for a while — even if I never have another party night for the rest of my life, I still think I'll be well ahead of the game.'

"And I haven't seen him touch a drop since.

I won't go as far as to say not drinking is the reason Ernie was the last man standing at Royal Lytham & St. Annes (Adam Scott did collapse down the stretch), however, I know it didn't hurt his game. I play better when I don't drink, especially on the putting green. Putting is all about feel, and since alcohol numbs the senses, I never putt as well if I've had more than two beers on the golf course.

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