Harrington tied for Travelers lead

CROMWELL, Conn., June 24 (UPI) -- Padraig Harrington, a two-time British Open winner who is tuning up for that event, owned a piece of the lead Thursday at the Travelers Championship.

Harrington, who will go after his third British Open crown in four years next month, shot a first-round, 6-under 64 at the TPC-River Highlands course to share first place with Charlie Wi, Mathew Goggin and Justin Rose.

Rose birdied five straight holes on the back nine for his 64 and backed up his recent showing at The Memorial -- where he posted his first victory on American soil.

Those tied at 65 included Vijay Singh, Bubba Watson, Kevin Sutherland, Matt Jones, Aron Price, former British Open champion Ben Curtis and current American Ryder Cup captain Corey Pavin.

Pavin turned 50 last November.

Although the win for Rose this month was an important one for his career, it did not earn him an exemption into last week's U.S. Open. He tried and failed to qualify for that tournament.

Harrington tied for 22nd at Pebble Beach last week.

There was a 90-minute weather delay Thursday, but the entire field was able to complete the first round. Defending champion Kenny Perry had a 69. Chad Campbell aced the 16th hole en route to a 67.