PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland — The British Open at Royal Portrush started Thursday the way the last one ended: A packed grandstand and throaty cheers for an Irish golfer.

So it came as a bit of a jolt for American audiences who woke up Thursday morning to see Lee Westwood near the top of the leaderboard at the British Open. (Also up there: Phil Mickelson, who outdueled Westwood in 2010 at the Masters. Fifteen years ago.)

The 1st hole at Royal Portrush is not just controversial, it's just plain difficult. And led to some carnage Thursday morning at the Open.

The oldest major championship has taken a step into the modern world by using a technological feature that British Open organizers hope will bring to life one of the most storied walks in golf.

Rain showers can be expected at times for the 153rd Open Championship, which is being hosted on the coast of Northern Ireland.

In 2019, it was the first-ever sold-out Open. It was a hugely significant moment for Northern Ireland after a troubled past.

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PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland — The crowds following Rory McIlroy for three days at Royal Portrush have been enormous, a reminder of the expectations. On banners and flags and buntings of grandstands there are images of the claret jug, a reminder of what's at stake at the British Open.