Clarke Takes Himself Out Of '14 Ryder Race

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Paul Higham reports that a two-man race has developed after Darren Clarke pulled up on the backstretch.

"As much as I would dearly love to be captain, this may not be my time," said Clarke in Durban, where he had earlier questioned whether he whether being captain this time around would be something he wanted.

"I am exempt for another three years and if I was given the opportunity to do the captaincy, I'd effectively be throwing two of those years away.

Meanwhile, Thomas Bjorn opened the door for the Duke of Dunning...

"I don't have a strong view against appointing somebody twice," said committee chairman Thomas Bjorn. "But there are a lot of other people I think could do a very good job."

Good News, Bad News: LPGA Adds Event For 2013, Still Finalizing Their 2013 Schedule

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Steve DiMeglio reports on the LPGA adding a second event to the 2013 schedule, which unfortunately has not been finalized as we...are ten days into 2013.

The positive news only: a 144 player field in May with a $1.3 million purse.

The North Texas LPGA Shootout will also provide a unique opportunity for amateur players in the area to earn spots in the field through qualifying. Tournament exemptions will be awarded to the winners of a high school and collegiate "shootout" played in advance of the event. Tournament proceeds will benefit The Nexus Club which primarily supports and raises funds for the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf in North Texas.

"I am extremely excited for the opportunity to play in my home state again," said Angela Stanford, a four-time member of the U.S. Solheim Cup Team and native of Saginaw, Texas. "North Texas is a community with a passionate golf fan base and I know they will love having the Tour in town."

Shock: Estimates Of Rory's Nike Deal May Have Been Exaggerated

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The early reports said Rory McIlroy stands to sign a 10-year, $250 million deal with Nike.

Bob Harig hears that the original number may be inflated. Severely.

But make no mistake, McIlroy is going to be paid handsomely to do so. Various reports have pegged that number at $20 million a year over 10 years, although the estimates are apparently inflated and the terms of the deal shorter. Still, what if it is "only" $10 million a year?