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Clarke wins Open, books Grand Slam spot with fellow N Irishman McIlroy

Darren Clarke, the winner of the British Open

Darren Clarke won the 140th Open Championship in England this afternoon, booking his place in the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in the process.Clarke fired a level-par final round of 70 to finish five-under for the tournament, with Americans Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson in second three shots back.It is Clarke's first major of his career, and will see him come to Bermuda to play in the Grand Slam at Port Royal alongside Charl Schwartzel and fellow Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy in October.The final member of the most elite foursome in golf will be known next month when the final major of the year, the PGA Championship, takes place at Atlanta Athletic Club.Grand Slam General Chairman Andy Burrows explained the significance of Clarke's victory.“In 1999, Rory McIlroy, having just won the Under-10 World Championship, told a hometown TV audience in Northern Ireland his favorite player was countryman Darren Clarke.“And this year, McIlroy became the US Open Champion and Clarke – at age 42 – became the Open Champion. Now the stage is set for the elder statesman and emerging star to play in the same foursome at the PGA Grand Slam of Golf at Port Royal. It's an amazing story for golf fans all over the world.“The shaping storyline could not be more poetic,” Mr Burrows said. “We are very much looking forward to October when the eyes of the golfing world will be focused on Bermuda.”