Harrington to start The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush

Former Open champion to hit first tee shot on Thursday morning

Pádraig Harrington won the Open in 2007 and 2008.  Pic: Robert Perry/PA

Two-time Champion Golfer of the Year Pádraig Harrington will hit the first tee shot at The 153rd Open to start the race for the Claret Jug.

Harrington will follow in the footsteps of Darren Clarke, who hit the first shot at Royal Portrush six years ago, and the likes of Paul Lawrie, Matthew Jordan and Justin Leonard in recent years.