Padraig Harrington was pleased a new putting alignment lasted a full 18 holes after recording a two under par 70 on the opening day of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

Harrington took a new alignment into the event and after a 20-minute delay to the start of play due to fog, he emerged in then very hot conditions with four birdies and half as many bogeys on the TPC Avondale course.

“My new alignment on the greens is nothing revolutionary or anything but at least it lasted the round,” he said.

“I didn’t putt that well but at least I am happy trying something new.

“Overall I didn’t get myself into any trouble today and while I didn’t drive it particularly straight I hit a lot of greens, so I gave myself a lot of chances.

“However it would have been good to birdie the last as three under par would have been a better reward.”

Padraig Harrington quizzes this young fellow ‘Where’s your teeth gone?’ after his round of a two under par 70. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)

And Harrington was once again a big hit with fans signing autographs on his way to the clubhouse, and remarking to one youngster who had lost his teeth:  “Hey, where’s your teeth gone?  What does the other fella look like?”

While Harrington will look to take a bigger bite out of the New Orleans course there was the sight during his round of one of the many alligators that frequent the ‘water hazards’ lurching out of the water to snap up an unsuspecting turtle lying on the bank, and a reminder not to go fishing any golf balls out of the hazards.

Padraig Harrington putts out in a round of 70 on the opening day of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. (Photo – www.golfbytourmiss.com)