Padraig Harrington Keeps Masters ‘Last Chance Saloon’ Open With Houston 69 – Video.

Padraig Harrington boosted hopes of securing the final Masters invitation with a 69 on the opening day of the Shell Houston Open.

The $US 6.2m event is a ‘Last Chance Saloon’ for Harrington and another 45 players, including the Dubliner’s playing partners Ryo Ishikawa and Ryder Cup star Nicolas Colsaerts, in the 144-player Houston field.

Harrington has competed in every Masters since his debut in 2000 but has run out of exemptions while he’s tumbled to 164th on the World Rankings.

Padraig Harrington at the 2010 Masters.

Padraig Harrington at the 2010 Masters.

However the triple Major winner remains ever-optimistic.

“I had birdie chances all the way through today and could have easily shot six, seven under but then three under is a good platform to build on,” he said.

“But if I do miss out on the Masters it’s something I haven’t experienced before given I’ve played there every year since 2000.

“And if I don’t qualify it will be a shame to miss out on a Major and particularly the Masters, but then if I don’t I will be trying just as hard for next year.”

The American pair of Matt Kuchar and Keegan Bradley shared the clubhouse lead with rounds of 66 while former champion Phil Mickelson, who played 27 holes at Augusta before arriving in Houston, showed no ill-effects of a back muscle strain in shooting 68.

Here is Harrington’s interview with those present in Houston.

 



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