Padrig Harrington is burning up Lahinch after shooting a front nine 30 in the first round of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.
Harrington , 47, warned fans not to expect a title-contending challenge on the west Clare links this week after struggling with a wrist injury from the start of the year.
But the Dubliner, who will captain Europe's Ryder Cup team against the USA at Whistling Straits next year, turned back time this afternoon.
A scintillating four birdies in his opening nine holes, including a brilliant chip-in with his second shot on the par-three eighth that delighted Harrington and the massive galleries cheering him on, moved the former Irish Open winner to within one shot of the leading group on five-under par.
And, as he turns for the clubhouse, it also leaves Harrington level with Shane Lowry, who shot an excellent 66 earlier.
