Tuesday notebook

Keegan Bradley got off to a hot start thanks to some amazing shotmaking on the front nine. Plus, jet lag is no match for Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke changed his post-round plans after colorfully describing his play, and more.

By The PGA of America

SOUTHAMPTON, Bermuda -- Keegan Bradley came out sizzling -- despite bogeying the first hole, he shot a 30 on the front nine, including eagles on the second hole and seventh hole, to take the early lead. 

DARK & STORMY ON THE 16TH: It got dark and stormy rather quickly as the foursome took aim on the 16th tee, with triple bogeys from Charl Schwartzel and Darren Clarke, and a bogey for Bradley. Rory McIlroy managed to beat the rain and par the most difficult hole of the day.

WEATHER OR NOT: Bermuda shorts lined the fairways for most of the day, but umbrellas and rainsuits were abundant in the afternoon as spectators weathered the brief rainstorm that did not stop play. Clarke commented that the storm was “wonderful – a bit more of my weather.”

HAIL NORTHERN IRELAND: While the crowds might be cheering loudest for McIlroy, Clarke also remains a fan favorite as some of his loyal supporters held up a sign that read, “This Guinness is for you Darren.” Clarke admitted he was tempted to jump the wall and go get his Guinness then, instead of waiting to “find the answer to [his bad game] in the bottom of the glass tonight.”

GYM RAT: Travel and jet lag are no match for McIlroy, who still made it to the gym for a 6:30 a.m. workout, and he was planning for a post-round workout session, too.  His 33 on the back nine put him tied for the lead at -4 heading into the final round.

BARREL OF LAUGHS: The funniest man on the course was Clarke, who described his game as “absolute crap.” He was disappointed with his performance overall, but plans to stay out later than planned tonight, as he “probably couldn’t do any worse tomorrow.”