Padraig Harrington needs something exceptional
August 11, 2012

Padraig Harrington is resigned to missing his first Ryder Cup since 1997 until he follows the words of European captain Jose Maria Olazabal and does something extraordinary. That would mean winning, and he's running out of time.

Harrington had a 76 on Friday in the PGA Championship and was six shots out of the lead. His last chance would be The Barclays, the opening FedEx Cup playoff event in two weeks at Bethpage Black.

Olazabal's comments earlier in the week at least put Harrington at ease.

''He's obviously got players in mind from that,'' the Irishman said. ''I can't do anything about it, honestly. I would love to have an exceptional week, but there you go. At least it's clearer in my mind now. Obviously, I have to do something very good here or next week.''

Indications point to Olazabal using one of his captain's picks on Ian Poulter. Europe takes 10 players after the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles, which ends the day after The Barclays.

''There certainly isn't very much room for a pick for me,'' Harrington said. ''You're looking at obviously, Ian Poulter is going to get one. And there's one left. Obviously, I'm not in the reckoning as it stands. So I have to do something exceptional. At least it's clear.''

Harrington was hurt by not being eligible for three World Golf Championships this year, or the Tour Championship last year, which offer easy ranking points. He believes he is playing well, and points to a for fourth in the U.S. Open two months ago.

What constitutes extraordinary? Next to a win, someone threw out the notion of a 59.

''Well, now you've put it in the wind,'' Harrington said with a laugh. ''Look, hey, it's the way it is. I'm happy to be playing well.''

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