The Open day one: Darren Clarke with the honour of opening tee shot
Reigning Open champion Franceso Molinari will launch his defence at 9.58am.
Local hero Darren Clarke will take the honour of hitting the first shot of The Open at Royal Portrush on Thursday, as Northern Ireland hosts the prestigious tournament for the first time in 68 years.
Here, PA looks at what to expect from day one of the season’s final major.
Groups to watch
Reigning Open champion Franceso Molinari will launch his defence by stepping out alongside Bryson DeChambeau and Adam Scott, with the trio setting off at 9:58am.
Rory McIlroy’s 10th birthday present was his first-ever round at Portrush, and the 30-year-old will kick start his Open challenge at 10:09am, with reigning US open champion Gary Woodland and Paul Casey for company.
Tiger Woods steps into action in Portrush having admitted he still runs his Masters triumph from earlier this year back again and again in his mind. The 15-time major champion will set off at 3.10pm, with Matt Wallace, who finished third in the PGA Championship, and Patrick Reed alongside him.
Kaymer will have to get comfortable on the first
A big social engagement
McIlroy showcases what is in store for Northern Ireland, and the watching world.
Rain and wind on the way
TV Times
History awaits for Northern Ireland
