Shane Lowry shot a 66 to get off to a fast start at the BMW Championship in Delaware.
Lowry is currently two shots off the first round clubhouse lead that has been set by American Keegan Bradley at the FedEx Cup playoffs event.
The Offaly man, playing alongside compatriot Seamus Power, had a quiet opening nine at Wilmington Country Club.
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After getting up and done from a bunker on the par-five third hole for a birdie, Lowry had six successive pars to go out in one-under-par.
But a birder on the par four 10th hole was followed by another on the par five 12th hole to go three-under-par for the round.
The highlight of his round came on the 14th hole when two big hits saw him find the green in two before the 2019 Open champion drained an eagle putt from over 56 feet.
Another birdie came on the 17th hole when Lowry hit it within two feet with a precise wedge shot.
Lowry was left with a sour taste in his mouth though when three putting on the final hole to sign for a five-under-par 66.
Not only hunting a first victory since that win at Royal Portrush, Lowry needs a good finish to make next week's season-ending Tour Championship.
Lowry started the week in 37th place in the FedEx Cup rankings with only the top 30 progressing to East Lake.
Meanwhile, Seamus Power battled well to record a level-par opening round of 71. Rory McIlroy is among the later starters in Delaware.
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