The Clara man is three shots off the lead.
Shane Lowry is three shots off the lead after his opening round at the Irish Open.
The 2009 champion is the leading Irishman after he a carded a three-under par round of 69.
Nacho Elvira is the new leader after reaching the clubhouse in 66 for 6-under par.
The Spaniard is one stroke ahead of Daniel Brown, Adrien Saddier and Bernrd Wiesberger who all carded 67 on day one at the K Club.
Rory McIlroy is two shots further back after a 71 today while Padraig Harrington ended on two-over.
Coverage with thanks to Keenan Bauer Motors Mullingar - Your home for Citroen and Honda in the Midlands - Keenanbauer.com
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