Darren Clarke agonisingly close to Open hole-in-one on famous Postage Stamp hole

Irish golfing legend Darren Clarke nearly sent the Open crowd into a frenzy after coming agonisingly close to a hole-in-one at the famous Postage Stamp hole at Royal Troon.

Clarke, who won the Claret Jug in 2011, is still eligible for the event after his victory 13 years ago, and very nearly had another big moment to remember.

Stepping up onto the 120-yard eighth hole, Clarke was almost perfect as he left his ball approximately six inches from the hole.

READ MORE: Rory McIlroy learns harsh reality at The Open after bunker nightmare at Royal Troon

READ MORE: Rory McIlroy new caddie claim and defence of Harry Diamond as US Open theory dismissed

The birdie brought Clarke back to five-over-par as he sits near the foot of the leaderboard in tough conditions.

Fellow countryman Rory McIlroy looks unlikely to end his major hoodoo after carding a seven-over-par 78.

“The course was playing tough,” McIlroy said. “Conditions were very difficult in a wind that we have not seen so far this week.

“When that happens it presents different options and I didn’t adapt well enough to the conditions.”

McIlroy was in action for only the second time since his US Open heartbreak but rival Bryson DeChambeau also struggled as he carded a five-over-par 76.

“It’s a difficult test out here. Something I’m not familiar with. I never grew up playing it and not to say that that’s the reason; I finished eighth at St Andrews (two years ago). I can do it when it’s warm and not windy," DeChambeau said after his round.

“But no, I’ve got a chance tomorrow. I’m excited for the challenge. If I have some putts go in and hit some shots the way I know how to and figure out this equipment stuff, I’ll be good"

American Justin Thomas currently leads the tournament after shooting an opening round of three-under-par.

Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts.