Rory McIlroy Finishes Strong to Sit Two Shots Off Lead at Irish Open

McIlroy's birdies on the last three holes put him in contention at Royal County Down, despite challenging weather conditions.

Rory McIlroy birdied his final three holes to shoot a 3-under-par 68 in the first round of the Irish Open.
McIlroy is aiming for his second Irish Open title, eight years after his first, at a course near his childhood home in Northern Ireland.
The No. 3-ranked golfer had a mixed round with bogeys on the 14th and 15th holes but recovered well to finish strong.
Todd Clements of England leads the tournament with a 66, while Sami Valimaki and Alejandro Del Rey are tied for second at 67.
McIlroy credits his solid start to feeling 'detached' from the tournament by staying at his home in Holywood, rather than near the course.