Mixed start for Padraig Harrington in Olympic debut

Padraig Harrington on -1 (T17) and Seamus Power (T27) on level par finished the first round of their Olympic Golf event seven and eight shots off the leader Australian Marcus Fraser, who opened with an 8-under par 63.

On a first day that became progressively windy, Henrik Stenson finished tied for second place with Canadian Graham Delaet. Both players opened with rounds of 66.

Power, from Waterford, was pleased with his level par opening round that was, according Paul McGinley, played in conditions that were two shots more difficult than the groups that went out first thing in the morning.

“I had plenty of chances today, it’s just a matter of taking the opportunities that I have,” said Power,

“If I had played the last three holes right I would have come in two or three under and have a totally different feel. I just need to give myself some more opportunities.”

As golf made its return to the Olympic roster for the first time in 112 years Justin Rose also earned a place in history with the first ace of the competition at the fourth hole.

The English player hit bullseye at the par 3 on his way to -4 and a share of fourth place.