Wentworth Digest: If not exactly a miracle of the loaves-and-fishes variety, Paul McGinley's recovery from knee surgery conducted just a week ago was remarkable enough to very nearly enable him take his place in the field for the BMW Championship.
The 39-year-old Dubliner played nine holes at Sunningdale yesterday before deciding to withdraw from the European Tour's flagship tournament, in which he was runner-up to Angel Cabrera a year ago.
"I had no problem hitting shots or twisting and turning," said McGinley. "The problem came when walking in between shots. The knee started to swell. I nearly made it. It's disappointing to miss such a marvellous tournament but the risk was too great."
As McGinley has an eye on qualifying for the Ryder Cup, his break from tournament play won't last too long. He hopes to return to competition at next week's Wales Open at Celtic Manor.
His place in the BMW field has been taken by England's Benn Barham, which means Michael Hoey has been elevated to first reserve.
McGinley was an absentee from the European Tour dinner at Wentworth on Tuesday night, when his prize for "shot of the year" for 2005 - his approach to the 17th at Valderrama on the way to winning the Volvo Masters - was collected on his behalf by David Howell.
Figure of eight
Only one Irishman, Harry Bradshaw in 1958, has ever won this championship, formerly known as the Volvo PGA.
But there have been a number of close-run things: Eamonn Darcy had a close call in 1976, losing out at the third extra hole to Neil Coles, and Des Smyth was beaten by Rodger Davis at the third tie hole in 1986.
On this occasion, there are eight Irishmen in the field: Darren Clarke, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Peter Lawrie, Gary Murphy, Damien McGrane, Brendan McGovern and Stephen Hamill.
Cruel cuts
Luke Donald has an interesting angle on the reason Sergio Garcia, who hasn't played in the championship for six years, is again an absentee.
"I believe the main reason why he doesn't play in this tournament, or England in general, is the tax rule," said Donald, who based his observations on a recent case involving the tennis player Andre Agassi.
Anyone who competes or performs in Britain has a liability to pay tax. Athletes already pay tax on prize money but must also pay up on earnings they receive from endorsements while they are in the country.
Price is right
Fancy a flutter on an outsider? Peter Lawrie - priced 150 to 1 with Paddy Power - reckons you could do worse than have a few cent on him.
Although he has yet to win on tour, the 2003 "rookie of the year" believes his time will come sooner rather than later.
"My golf game has improved and improved, and if I keep getting myself into positions on Saturdays and Sundays I'll eventually slip over the line," says the Dubliner. "I think it's just a matter of time."
Lawrie, who has shown tremendous consistency in recent months, making seven of his last eight cuts, anticipates a strong challenge this week.
"If I can bring my good game to this golf course, hole a few putts, I don't see why I can't (contend) . . . if you play well, you're in with a shout come Sunday."
So, how about this week?
"I might be worth a bet . . .. maybe an each way."
