ULSTER golf aces Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke are among the leading contenders in the race to be crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2011.
However, local fans are fearful a splitting of loyalties may hamper the duo’s chances of replicating compatriot Tony McCoy’s success last year in lifting the coveted title.
McIlroy and Clarke — who both enjoyed a memorable year in claiming the US Open and British Open titles respectively — are two of three golfers shortlisted for the prize, which will be presented to the sports star who obtains the most public votes in a live television ceremony tonight.
According to the latest betting odds, Clarke is second favourite to collect the title, trailing behind road cyclist, Mark Cavendish.
McIlroy was third favourite out of the 10 contenders with fellow golfer Luke Donald in fifth position.
Both local golfers are expected to attend the annual awards ceremony at Salford Quays in person.
McIlroy, 22, currently ranked as the number three best golfer in the world, capped a stunning year by winning his first major championship, the US Open, in June. His comprehensive victory was all the more remarkable after he missed out on the Masters title only weeks earlier following a spectacular collapse in his final round.
The Holywood superstar continued his fine form in the latter part of 2011, lifting the richest prize in golf — the £1.24m Shanghai Masters — in October.
Fellow professional Clarke achieved a lifelong ambition in July when he fulfilled his major dream by winning at the Open. In emotional scenes at Royal St George’s, the 43-year-old dedicated his victory to his sons Tyrone and Conor and his late wife Heather — who died in 2006 from breast cancer.
Despite their success, local golf fans are fearful both players will suffer in the public vote due to split loyalties. General manager at Holywood Golf Club, Paul Gray, said although McIlroy was “deserving” of the title, he believed the young golfer would not triumph.
“There are three golfers in the running and I think that will probably split the golfing fraternity vote,” he said.
Wilma Erskine, secretary manager at Royal Portrush, agreed regarding the divided golfing vote but said club members were rooting for Clarke to win.
She said: “I think with the years of trouble and strife that Darren has had it would be nice to see him come through. He is obviously coming towards the end of his career rather then the beginning, whereas Rory has a long future ahead of him.”
Other nominees include tennis player Andy Murray, England cricketers Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook, and boxer Amir Khan.
Ulster jockey Tony McCoy triumphed in last year’s competition after winning his first Grand National at the 15th attempt.
The winner will be announced on BBC One from 8pm tonight. The public can vote for their favourite by telephone — voting details will be given out during the live programme.