Tramore’s Robin Dawson showed his ability to remain patient in his bid for a precious tour card by opening with a two-under 70 at the Final Stage of the European Tour Qualifying School in Spain.

Shane Lowry embraced the pressure as a privilege and combined power and accuracy with some of his trademark short game genius to lead the Irish challenge alongside new dad Michael Hoey after the opening round of a rain-soaked Irish Open at Carton House.

Damien McGrane let slip the chance to shine in the dull conditions on the second day of the Volvo China Open.

Ireland's Padraig Harrington is eight shots off the lead heading into the second round of the Barclays event in New York state today.