Published: Wednesday, 30th June, 2010 5:00pm

Cavan sports fan meets the US Open champion

Jamie Hughes from Belturbet with US Open Champion Graeme McDowell at Rathmore Golf Club last week.

Sports mad Jamie Hughes from Belturbet must be the envy of all seven-year-olds in the county, as he met his golf hero Graeme McDowell in Rathmore Golf Club, Portrush last week.

McDowell became the first European in 40 years to win the US Open when he captured the title at Pebble Beach on Fathers' Day (June 20). He also became the first Irishman to land the title.

A keen golfer, Jamie was over the moon when his uncle Ken Comboy, who caddies for McDowell, called and invited him and his father Cahal to meet Graeme on his return to his home club last Wednesday.

Ken is a brother-in-law of Cahal's wife Maura and has visited Belturbet on many occasions. He was aware that Jamie loves golf and was delighted to invite him to Graeme's homecoming party.

Speaking to the Anglo-Celt this week Cahal said: "We received a wonderful reception at Rathmore GC and Graeme was very courteous, singing autographs and having photos taken with everyone… a true gentleman."

Jamie's reaction was wonderful - "it was cool and class to meet GMac". Ken has been caddying for Graeme for the last four years and has plenty of experience, having caddied for other top European tour players such as Soren Hansen, Paul Casey, Thomas Bjorn and Andrew Coltart.

There was an added bonus for Jamie as another golfing hero Rory McIlroy also turned up for the celebration. Jamie also managed to get his hands on the prestigious trophy. "It was a wonderful day and one that neither of us will ever forget," said Cahal.

Graeme became the first European since Tony Jacklin in 1970 and only the second ever European to win the US Open since 1925.

There is no doubt that Ireland will have a strong representation on this year's Ryder Cup team to take on the USA later this year with McDowell, McIlroy and Padraig Harrington all sure to be named on the team.

Jamie is a sports fanatic; along with golf at Cavan and the Slieve Russell Golf Clubs, he participates in football, swimming, and athletics. It was the first time Jamie met Graeme and it will live with him forever. He is looking forward to seeing how Graeme performs in the British Open at St. Andrew's next month and this year's Ryder Cup.