Harrington wins player award

Open champion Padraig Harrington had something else to celebrate on Tuesday following the recent birth of his second son Ciaran - the European Tour golfer-of-the-year award.

Harrington, who became a father again on November 24, lost out to Ryder Cup team-mate Paul Casey last year despite winning the Order of Merit.

But this time he has won the vote of a panel of writers and commentators ahead of US Open champion Angel Cabrera and new European number one Justin Rose.

The 36-year-old Dubliner ended Europe's eight-year barren spell in the majors when he beat Sergio Garcia in a play-off at Carnoustie in July.

During the season he also became the first home winner of the Irish Open since John O'Leary in 1982.

"There were a couple of other wins in there, so it is really nice for it all to be recognised at the end of the season," said Harrington.

"Accolades like this are very rewarding, especially as time passes and it is a great reminder of what a great year 2007 was."