Padraig Harrington made assured opening steps to his US Open campaign at the treacherous Bethpage Black Course in New York today and finds himself just two shots off the early lead.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) typically set the course up - the first public course ever to host their National Open - with the maximum amount of difficulty intended.
Despite being the longest course in US Open history, over 7,200yards, and only par 70, Harrington managed to cover the front nine in level par 35. A birdie at the third was given back with a bogey at the fifth, since then the Dubliner remained level after 11 holes.
Harrington makes up one-third of the Irish contingent, Paul McGinley tees-off at 5:25 p.m. (Irish time) while Darren Clarke sets off at 6:35 from the 10th alongside a certain Mr Woods.
Spain’s Sergio Garcia, Americans Jeff Maggert and David Love III share the early lead on two-under. At times, this trio were making a mockery of the difficult terrain but all have enough experience, and at least one bogey on the card, to know this course commands respect.
Dudley Hart was the first player to return in under par. The American carded a one-under par 69. Despite six birdies on the card, Hart also suffered a triple bogey seven at the fifth and two further bogeys on the back nine.