Shane Lowry endured the worst weather of the week, held up under Sunday pressure and expectations of fans who cheered his every step, and won the British Open by six shots.
McIlroy can only watch on the weekend as one of his best friends, Shane Lowry of Ireland, goes after the claret jug. Lowry shares the 36-hole lead with J.B. Holmes.
J.B. Holmes is showing no signs of slowing down at the British Open, the first round leader shot an opening 66, added a 3-under 68 to take the clubhouse lead at Royal Portrush.
Shane Lowry of Ireland didn't have the level of expectations or the connection to Royal Portrush like Rory McIlroy. All he had was the lead Thursday at the British Open.
Rory McIlroy wants to treat this week just like any other British Open. He also knows better. The 148th Open is the first in his native Northern Ireland in 68 years.