Harrington’s storming finish puts him in striking distance

DARREN Clarke and Padraig Harrington began yesterday’s first round in the US PGA Championship at precisely the same time - but from different tees.

For most of the day, Clarke attracted all the attention as he shot nine birdies on his way to a course record 65.

Not to be outdone, however, Harrington put in a storming finish, rattling off birdies at each of his last three holes to finish on 68 and come in just three shots behind his compatriot. Given much of the mediocrity that had gone before and the fact that he was actually two over par after his first six holes, it was a return that delighted Harrington enormously.