Harrington hopes lifted by late charge
Padraig Harrington came charging back into contention for a successful defence of The Open with an eagle-birdie finish to his second round at Royal Birkdale today.
Starting to think he might miss the halfway cut when he began the back nine with two bogeys to stand six-over, the Irishman finished with one of the rounds of the day, a 68 that lifted him to two-over.
No European has retained the Claret Jug since James Braid in 1906, but Harrington said: “I’m delighted. I’m well in there with 36 holes to go and you just need to be there with nine to play. It’s unlikely anybody is going to run away with it.”
A year ago at Carnoustie he came from six back on the final day to beat Sergio Garcia in a play-off.
The most remarkable aspect, of course, is that he was able to play only nine holes on Tuesday and none on Wednesday because of a wrist injury.
He was doubtful until he warmed up before his opening 74, but says now: “I would have to think I am over the problem now.”
The three on the 572-yard downwind 17th came courtesy of a 35-foot putt, then he holed from nine on the last.
“An eagle in a major is a bonus and you don’t expect to play the last four of a major in four under.” He had also birdied the long 15th.
Greg Norman is among those who he is now chasing, of course, and Harrington was asked if he thought the 53-year-old Australian – level par after two 70s – could win.
“I think if Greg Norman is interested he is mighty fine player still. I think it’s possible he can win.”
