Golf: Padraig Harrington plays at Celtic Manor

Apr 22 2008 By Simon Kendal-Williams

OPEN champion Padraig Harrington heads the field at this year's Celtic Manor Wales Open.

The Irishman has confirmed he will make his debut at the event from May 29-June 1, which will be played on the Ryder Cup Twenty Ten course for the first time.

Harrington, the world number 11 who was Europe's highest finisher in joint-fifth place at this month's US Masters, said: "I'm really looking forward to playing in the Celtic Manor Wales Open.

"It gives me an opportunity to get an early look at the course which will stage the Ryder Cup in 2010.

"I've heard a lot of good things about it, and hopefully it will suit my game and provide ideal preparation for the tough conditions we can expect in the US Open a couple of weeks later.

"I'm sure the fans in Wales will give me a special Celtic welcome, and I hope to give them something to cheer about in return."

Bradley Dredge will again lead the Welsh challenge, after misisng out on the title by one shot to Richard Sterne last year.

He said: "The Celtic Manor Wales Open is one of the highlights of my year.

"It was an absolute thrill to be leading the the tournament during the final round - hopefully, I can finish the job this year."

Prize money for the event, now in its ninth year, has increased to £1.8m.