Irish Open: Emerald Isle a jewel for foreign raiders

Danny Willett and Rory McIlroy might be the star turns but the men chasing them sounded as happy about Ireland and the Irish as they did about their first round scores in the Irish Open.

South African Jaco Van Zyl made just one bogey in a four under 68 to share third spot with English rookie and Challenge Tour graduate Callum Shinkwin.

But while Van Zyl found the K Club’s Palmer Ryder Cup course a major test, he reckons the trip is well worth it for the scenery and hospitality.