Ulster Hotshot Graeme McDowell opened with all guns blazing and claimed: I want to a Major in two years.

McDowell hit five birdies and two bogeys in an opening 69 to trail the leaders by just three shots.

The 22 year old from Portrush has his eye on a second European Tour win after his rookie success in Sweden last year.

But the admitted that he is preparing his game to challenge the big guns for the Majors.

He beamed: "That wasn't bad at all. I played really, really solid today from tee to green.

"Last year I still had a very amateur short game but I feel like my short game is much better now.

"I'm much more professional, much more efficient and it's good to see the comparison with last year."

McDowell has lost eight pounds and trained hard in the gym to get closer to the top players in the world.

He said: "These top guys are really good. My swing is a work in progress and I think that with the experience of the next couple of years I am going to be in a position to win Major championships.

"I think in two years time I should be ready to do that. I have big plans this winter to work on my fitness. I know what I want to do and I will do that."

The top college player in the US two years ago, McDowell is eyeing a move to the US PGA Tour in the future.

But for now he is content to learn his trade close to home before taking his game to the States.

He said: "I have learning to do in Europe. I have to dominate of make the top 15 or 20 in Europe before I will know if my game is ready for the States.

"Until I reach that position I am very happy where I am. I would love to play 15-17 events in America every year and then see what I can achieve."
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© Brian Keogh 2003

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