PREVIEW: Irish Open - Monday, May 14, 2007

ADARE, Ireland -- In his first trip to Ireland, Notah Begay III hopes to continue his good play heading into this week's Irish Open, held at the Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Resort

"My back is still day-to-day with some tightness and pain," Notah said on Monday. "I've managed to stay loose enough to compete and play steady golf."

Notah was forced to withdraw from an event two weeks ago, however, he still managed to string together four consecutive rounds under par at last week's Valle Romano Open de Andalucia and finish in a tie for 34th place.

"I'm very happy with my scoring in Andalucia because it was my most consistent tournament of the year," Notah said. "The last three cuts I've made have all resulted in mid-pack finishes, which implies that there is a degree of consistency. My next objective on the course is to play my best golf on the weekend."

While playing great golf on the weekend is nothing new to the 4-time U.S. PGA Tour winner, doing it in Ireland will be a first.

"I've never been to Ireland but anticipate a great week," Notah said. "I've read so much about the golf in Ireland and I'm anxious to see it for myself. They call it The Emerald Isle because of its extensive greenery and beautiful terrain. The other players tell me that the Irish fans are some of the most gracious in the world."

Apparently, the Irish are living up to their friendly billing with the offer of a luxury Spanish apartment, valued at $660,000, for the first player to achieve a hole in one at the 11th hole. According to EuropeanTour.com, the hole "will range from 180 to 235 yards depending on the pin position with the entire shot carried over the picturesque River Maigue. The 'Home in One' prize is being offered by McInerney, Irelandâ€™s largest home builder."

Be sure to check back with Notah.com to follow NB3 in his quest to earn a fifth Tour victory...and possibly a luxury apartment in Spain.