Source: CCTV.com

07-21-2008 10:51

Padraig Harrington successfully defended his Open title on Sunday. Two shots adrift of overnight leader Greg Norman at the start of the day, the Irishman effectively sealed victory with an eagle at the 17th. Harrington's one-under-par final round 69 completed a three-over 283 total.

Padraig Harrington of Ireland holds up the trophy after winning the British Open Golf championship, at the Royal Birkdale golf course, Southport, England, Sunday, July 20, 2008.(AP Photo/ Matt Dunham)

Harrington started two shots adrift of leader Norman. But the Irishman ground out six successive pars before hitting trouble with three successive bogeys from seven to nine. Little was going right for Norman the "Shark", as he looked to become the oldest man to win a Major. Instead, the emotional favorite was now outstripped by Ian Poulter, who was just two strokes adrift coming to 17.

Harrington however, made a great approach to 17, effectively sealing the title. He would go on to roll in an eagle-3. Poulter meanwhile finished four shots adrift in second. Norman had to be content with a share of third alongside Henrik Stenson, a further two strokes back.

Padraig Harrington said "This year it is more satisfying, I went out there in the last group, first time I have ever played in the last groups at a Major. I have done my thing and played my golf and I have produced and performed and I have given myself a great cushion down the last, I have shot in the 60's. It's very satisfying, very confidence filling."