Four days after winning a tournament to secure his place in the Open Championship, India’s Jeev Milkha Singh today continued where he left off in the first round at Royal Lytham.

Graeme McDowell believes the “minimal” shortcomings of Royal Portrush can be overcome in order for the course to stage the Open Championship.

American James Driscoll made the perfect start to the 141st Open Championship when play got under way in calm, overcast conditions at Royal Lytham this morning.

Pádraig Harrington’s bid for a third British Open Championship victory will get off to a late start on Thursday following yesterday’s draw at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

Second-ranked Rory McIlroy is with 2010 champion Louis Oosthuizen and reigning USPGA champion Keegan Bradley at the Open Championship.