Shane Lowry insists he isn't feeling the pressure as the home favourite in the absence of Rory McIlroy at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.
World number 11 John Rahm is the front-runner with the bookies but there will be massive backing for Lowry, who has hit a rich vein of form, especially in the absence of former tournament host McIlroy.
Lowry played 10 holes in practice on the Lahinch links yesterday to kick-off his preparations as he attempts to win the Irish Open title for the second time - the first as an amateur in 2009.
"I don't feel it as a responsibility," said Lowry later when asked how he will cope as the top-ranked Irish hopeful in west Clare.
"There's plenty of us here. Obviously the career Paddy (Harrington) has had, you can pass it onto him if you want to!. And G Mac, he'll have his following down here.
"To be honest, I have thought of it. I obviously know Rory isn't here and if I'm to get support around the golf course, it would be bigger and better (without McIlroy).
"Maybe that might help me as well as them (the other Irish competitors).
"It's great. Look, if I was coming in there in a different position and there was somebody else sitting there in my position, I'd be envious.
"And I should really be thankful. I'm lucky that I'm here.
"I'll have expectations of doing well this week. I wouldn't be here if I didn't.
"I'm just trying to play them down, just trying to go out there play my own game and see where it leads me.
"We're not like boxers. We don't stand there and say, 'I'm definitely going to win.
"I know how fickle this game is and I know it can jump up and bit you quicker than you expect."
Lowry will begin his title bid at 8.40am tomorrow in the company of last year's winner Russell Knox and world number 20 Tommy Fleetwood.
The Clara man found fame when, a decade ago, he claimed Irish Open victory at the county Louth club in Baltray and immediately turned pro afterwards.
"I don't want to even start thinking about winning the Irish Open again," he admitted.
"I just kind of try not to think about it, I can then play the Irish Open every year and do my best.
"I'm only 32 now. Hopefully I've got 15 or 20 Irish Opens in me. Hopefully, I'll have a few chances throughout the years, and hopefully one of them is this week.
"If I do get a chance, I'll be giving it my best".
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