Clarke whistles straight into lead

THE IRISH influence at Whistling Straits, this remarkable golf course on the shores of Lake Michigan, was enormous ever before the 86th US PGA got under way yesterday.
Clarke whistles straight into lead

By early afternoon, it looked as if they had taken over the place altogether with Darren Clarke shooting a spectacular course record seven under par, nine-birdie 65 to take the early lead. And to ensure he wasn't lonely up there at the head of affairs, Padraig Harrington birdied his last three holes to sign for a four under par 68. The big disappointment was Graeme McDowell's 77, a bitterly disappointing outcome for the young Ulsterman who had to call a two stroke penalty on himself at the 15th where his caddy unwittingly raked a bunker unaware that his player was in the same hazard albeit 40 yards away.

Clarke's 65 left him one ahead of playing partner Justin Leonard and pre-tournament favourite Ernie Els with Vijay Singh one of those ominously two off the pace.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €130 €65

Best value

Monthly €12€6 / month

More in this section

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited