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Ireland’s Padraig Harrington , installed a 25/1 long-shot at by oddsmakers , defied the odds by overcoming Spaniard Sergio Garcia (30/1) who led through three rounds and a double-bogey on the 18th hole and a four-hole playoff to win the 136th British Open Championship. In doing so, Harrington became the first Irishman to win the Claret Jug in 60 years and first European to win since 1999.

Within moments, Harrington pulled from his pocket a green and white Irish Flag and waved it at the cheering crowd. His son Patrick jumped into his arms followed by his wife. 

“It’s too good,” said Harrington, 35, after being declared in the “champion golfer of the year. I’ve come a long way,” he said. “When I turned pro I would have settled to be a good journeyman pro.” 

After leading through the first three rounds , Garcia, 27, was keeping his composure after the late collapse or as some would say, fell victim to the ghost of Carnoustie. 

“I’m fine, I’m disappointed,” Garcia said. “Padraig played well today and well enough to win. I just have to get better I guess.” 

Garcia, in his own quest for a first major, teed off with a three-shot lead in the final pairing with Steve Stricker. Seven others, including Harrington were at six shots back at 3-under.

 Rookie Andres Romero, 26, of Argentina made a charge to take a share of the lead but double-bogies on 12 and 17 sealed his fate and leaving the battle on 18 to Harrington and Garcia. Harrington stepped up to the tee on 18 at 9 under, one stroke better than Garcia.

After hitting a tee shot into the water, Harrington was forced to take a penalty shot ending up with a six stroke double bogey before exiting into the scorer’s trailer to watch Garcia finish his round. 

Garcia had a chance to win the championship with a par on 18 but he couldn’t do it His put for the par spun out ending regulation play with a two way tie at 7-under. 

Harrington scored a birdie and Garcia bogeye d to open the playoff round. With a two shot lead, Harrington played it safe, settling for a bogey and a one-shot victory on the final hole.

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