CROMWELL, Connecticut, (Reuters) – Padraig Harrington, fresh off a tie for 22nd place at last week’s U.S. Open, fired seven birdies to grab a share of the early lead at the Travelers Championship yesterday.
The only blemish on the Irishman’s scorecard was a bogey at the par-four 14th en route to an opening round six-under-par 64 at the TPC River Highlands.
For Harrington, in search of his first PGA Tour win since the 2008 PGA Championship, the course was a welcome change from the fast-running conditions and small greens at Pebble Beach.
“It’s a different change of pace, but now that I’m leading the tournament, it’s back to the old grind again,” Harrington said. “If you hit it close, you’re confident you can get some putts in a row and you’re not weary of leaving yourself two or three-footers so it’s nice.”
Joining Harrington atop the leaderboard were Australia’s Matthew Goggin and South Korea’s Charlie Wi, who each carded bogey-free opening rounds.
Four players, including Americans Bubba Watson and Corey Pavin were one shot off the pace. Kenny Perry, who won the event last year, was five shots back of the leaders.
