Local favorite Padraig Harrington mounted a second round charge at the European PGA Tour\'s 2007 Irish Open, firing a 4-under-par 68 to sit one back of the lead held by Sweden\'s Peter Hanson.
Harrington was 1-over after first round play at the Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort in County Limerick.
But two early birdies on the front nine today gave him a jolt of momentum. He finished his round with five birdies and one bogey, on the par-5 18th.
Harrington\'s second round charge today was suggested by the way he closed out his first round, holing out two long putts for par (during a round where he suffered three three-putt holes).
\"At least I kept my score as it was and 73 is well in there,\" he told reporters yesterday. \"You know, keep playing the same way over the next couple of days and things will even themselves out I\'m sure and I\'ll make a few more birdies than I made today.\"
Hanson shout a first round 68, including four birdies and no bogeys. Through early action today, he is at even par.
South Africa\'s James Kingston is also at 3-under, tied with Harrington.
For more details visit - : http://www.worldgolf.com/news/europga/harrington-in-contention-at-2007-irish-open-5399.htm
May 18, 2007 Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management.