Darren Clarke has teamed up with Junior Golf Ireland to promote the game among children, less than a fortnight after Padraig Harrington made himself a hero to a new generation of golf fans by winning the British Open.

The Darren Clarke Foundation is to provide an initial 10 scholarships allowing top graduates from Junior Golf Ireland coaching programmes to realise their dreams and become golf club members.

"Many kids who show promise can't pursue the game and become golf club members because they either don't have the money or the contacts," said the Ryder Cup star.

"We aim to combat this by using the influence of Junior Golf Ireland and the weight of the Darren Clarke Foundation to persuade clubs to take in these youngsters.

"The sooner we get youngsters playing the game the better. I am excited by this initiative and will do all I can to increase participation by the young. They are the future of our game."

Anne-Marie Hughes, Director of Development for Junior Golf Ireland, commented: "The important thing is that, through the coaching programme and scholarship scheme, JGI can increase the number of young players playing the game and equip them with the skills to play golf for many years to come.

"Darren's support will also help some of these new young golfers to develop their talent to the highest level. The Darren Clarke Foundation will also back the under-10 age group initiatives and national winners will get the chance to meet and be coached by their hero at his Champions Weekend."