Padraig Harrington shot a bogey-free 5-under 65 on Friday to take a one-stroke lead at the ISPS HANDA Senior Open held at the Old Course in Sunningdale, Berkshire, England. His performance positions him well as he chases his second senior major title of the year and aims to join an exclusive group of golfers who have won both The Open Championship and the ISPS HANDA Senior Open.
Defending Champion K.J. Choi and Thomas Bjørn Close Behind
K.J. Choi, the defending champion, led late in the second round but bogeys on the 16th and 17th holes dropped him back to a 67, leaving him a stroke behind Harrington. Thomas Bjørn also sits just one shot off the pace after carding an impressive 63. Bjørn showcased resilience after a rough finish on the opening round, responding with multiple birdies and an eagle during Friday’s round.
Padraig Harrington Reflects on His Game and Course Preferences
Despite his strong score, Harrington admitted some difficulties throughout his round.
“Where I should make a score I scored, and then I got in trouble on plenty of other holes,”
he said.
“Hit some recovery shots and managed my game, but I never showed much confidence out there at all in my swing at all. I obviously like these 72-hole ones, and the bigger golf courses suit me.”
Thomas Bjørn Channels Frustration Into Strong Performance
Bjørn expressed mixed emotions over his play but used frustration as motivation.
“Just got out here in that mode of I know I played well yesterday and I was hitting the ball well. I knew I was playing well, but I was just angry,”
Bjørn said. He described the first twelve holes as “just an absolute joy,” during which he recorded four birdies and one eagle. Afterwards, two bogeys late in the round were offset by a closing birdie.
Other Contenders Remain in the Mix Following Second Round
Two shots behind the leader are notable players Ernie Els and Justin Leonard, who both recently competed at The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Their steady play keeps the leaderboard competitive as the tournament progresses. The ISPS HANDA Senior Open is the fifth major on the PGA TOUR Champions, played over 72 holes, in contrast to most regular events which are 54 holes.
Context on the Tournament and Harrington’s Recent Success
Harrington claimed the U.S. Senior Open Championship earlier this season at The Broadmoor in Colorado, bolstering his credentials in senior major events. His current lead in Berkshire highlights his continued strong form and ability to contend on challenging, larger golf courses.
Looking Ahead: Closing Rounds to Determine Champion
As the ISPS HANDA Senior Open moves into its final rounds, Harrington’s slim advantage sets up an intense battle with Choi, Bjørn, and other experienced contenders. Their performances on the demanding Old Course will be critical in deciding who secures the prestigious senior major title. Harrington’s bid to join the select group of golfers who have won both The Open and the Senior Open adds an extra layer of significance to his challenge.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Padraig Harrington married?
A. Harrington has been familiar with his wife, Caroline, since they were kids. They tied the knot in 1997 and have two sons. Their first son, Patrick, was born in 2003, and their second son, Ciarán, was born in November 2007. Harrington’s older brother, Tadhg, is a golf coach who owns and teaches at the Harrington Golf Academy in Dublin, Ireland.
Q. Is Padraig Harrington still married?
A. Personal Life: Harrington has known Caroline since they were kids. They got married in 1997 and have two sons. Patrick was born in 2003, and Ciarán arrived in November 2007.