'LONG SHOT' PADRAIG BELIEVES HE CAN WIN

PADRAIG HARRINGTON is the last man to retain the Claret Jug - and he is now hoping to win it again at 53.

- By Chris McKenna

The Irishman, who won his second Open 17 years ago, has the honour of teeing off first at 6.35 this morning.

But he also wants to be the last man standing on Sunday night at Royal Portrush.

"My goal is to hit the first shot and the last shot this week," he said.

"I'm sure the bookmakers will tell you that's not a reality but I have to prepare.

"If I get myself in contention I have to prepare to be ready for that moment and see how that goes.”

Harrington insists he is not a “ceremonial golfer”. However, he will take the first tee shot as an honour and could end up being nervous about it.

"I definitely feel like I can win an Open Championship," he said. "Do I feel like I'm going to at this Open Championship?