Golfers from both sides of the Atlantic have rallied in support of Mark James after the former Ryder Cup captain was diagnosed with cancer. As the 46-year-old prepared to undergo a course of chemotherapy to treat lymphoma, stars from the European and US tours were quick to offer their wishes for a speedy recovery. Jose Maria Olazabal, at St Andrews to head Spain's defence of the Dunhill Cup alongside Miguel Angel Jimenez and Miguel Martin, said, "It puts everything in perspective. We all wish Mark well and, hopefully, they will be able to catch the cancer early. We have seen problems like this cured before."
Sam Torrance, who will succeed James in skippering the European team against the Americans next year, also offered his support saying, "He is a very dear friend, our hearts and hopes are with him for a full and speedy recovery." Colin Montgomerie and his wife Eimear also sent a message, which read, "We are obviously concerned for Mark and Jane and wish Mark the speediest of recoveries." European Tour executive director Ken Schofield said, "Mark is an outstanding individual with tremendous resilience and we know that he will face whatever challenges might lie ahead with great courage and commitment."
Of particular significance for James though could be the support of Paul Azinger, who said he would be making contact with James within the next couple of days. Azinger made a swift return to golf after successfully recovering from lymphoma, diagnosed shortly after he won the US PGA Championship in 1993. "I hope to speak to Mark and share with him my experiences in undergoing treatment and successfully battling the disease," he said. Larry Mize, competing for the Americans at St Andrews this week, added, "I'm so sorry to hear about Mark. We will be praying for him."
James, who had complained of back pain for most of the year, underwent tests after suffering stomach problems. He has pulled out of the next five tournaments on the European tour.
Filed by Sean Doran
