Monday 29 February 2016 13:57, UK
Team Europe has been named the European Tour's Golfer of the Month for January following their convincing victory at the EurAsia Cup.
Darren Clarke, who will also lead Europe at this autumn's Ryder Cup at Hazeltine, guided his side to an emphatic 18.5-5.5 win in Kuala Lumpur to win the tournament for the first time.
Clarke's side were awarded the prize ahead of Qatar Masters champion Branden Grace, who posted three consecutive top-five finishes last month, and young SA Open champion Brandon Stone.
"I'm delighted to accept this award on behalf of Team Europe," Clarke said. "They all played a vital role in our victory at the EurAsia Cup, so they have all contributed to this victory.
"We had a brilliant backroom team in Malaysia too, and this award is recognition for the work that everyone involved with the European team carried out.
"Everyone played their part, but no one more than the players and I would like to thank them all once more for the professionalism and dedication they brought to the team.
Leading by six points heading into the Sunday singles, Clarke warned against the kind of complacency which had allowed Asia to come back from 7-3 to secure that 10-10 draw two years previously, but had no need to worry as his side claimed 9.5 of a possible 12 points during the final day.
"I couldn't have asked for any more from the guys and they all responded brilliantly to anything I asked," Clarke added. "I think the unity and camaraderie that has become the hallmark for European teams was definitely there and that shone through in the level of performance the players brought to the golf course.
"I was very proud to be their captain and I thank the guys once again for their support - it really means a lot."
