Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke receive New Year honours
Rory McIlroy (pictured) and Darren Clarke both made 2012's New Year Honours list
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Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy survived a final day wobble to finish level with Anthony Kim then beat the American in a play-off. |  |
Saturday, 31, Dec 2011 11:29
Northern Irish golfers Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke have both been included on the Queen's 2012 New Year Honours list.
Holywood-born McIlroy, who shocked the world with his US Open win this year, is among the youngest on the list, receiving an MBE at 22.
"I am delighted to be named in the Queen's New Year Honours list. It is quite humbling to be included in such a list of worthy recipients," the prodigy said.
Golf veteran Clarke, 42, is recognised with an OBE for winning his first Open this summer.
"It is a great honour and a fantastic way to end a great year. I am very proud for me and my family," he said.
Both Clarke and McIlroy were also nominated for the BBC Sports Personality of the year award, with Clarke coming second behind cyclist Mark Cavendish.
Other sporting legends to make the Honours list included ex-Test cricket umpire Dickie Bird, 78, who remains one of the most iconic officials in the sport's history.
Chris Paterson, Scotland's most capped rugby player, received an MBE in the lineup, as did Wales' Martyn Williams.
Jamie Peacock, English rugby league captain and prop forward for Leeds Rhinos, is also granted an MBE in the 2012 list.
Ex-chairman of Aston Villa Doug Ellis, infamous for his manager sacking, received a knighthood for his services to charity.
Other noteable figures to be honoured include moustachioed F1 hero Nigel Mansell, who becomes a CBE for charity work as president of UK Youth, and taekwondo world champion Sarah Stevenson.