Ireland's McDowell says will not play at Rio Games

Jun 19, 2016; Oakmont, PA, USA; Graeme McDowell hits from the 18th fairway during the final round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

LONDON (Reuters) - Padraig Harrington stepped up for Ireland on Thursday after compatriots Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy ruled out playing in Rio when golf returns to the Olympics for the first time in 112 years.

"It would be a huge honour for me to represent Ireland at the Olympic Games, having played an active role in golf’s bid to be re-included in the Olympic Games programme," said Harrington, a three times major champion, in a statement.