mayfair glad to be involved

By Mark Garrod, PA Sport Golf Correspondent, Chicago

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Two weeks after undergoing surgery for testicular cancer, American Billy Mayfair is thrilled about being able to play the US PGA Championship starting today in Chicago.

"I wasn't worried if I didn't play the rest of the year, but I had some tests done last Thursday, they all came out negative and the doctor said, 'Go play if you want'," said the 40-year-old.

"I'm a little sore, the legs are a little tired, but I other than that I feel really good.

"The cancer was obviously stage one. I got scared when I found this big lump. I was thinking of my family, my son Max. A lot of things go through your mind.

"I feel very blessed and very lucky. And everyone who has sent get well messages and blessings to me I can't thank them enough.

"If I get mad and swing a club or kick something I'll get mad at myself because I should be thankful just for being here. And I am."

In the week, of course, that Darren Clarke's wife Heather died from secondary breast cancer - her funeral was being held on today in Northern Ireland - Mayfair said that he would be sending a donation.

Hearing that Padraig Harrington was to hand over all his prize money this week, Mayfair added: "I think that's very, very nice. It's obviously something that needs to be taken care of now."