SWINDON golfer David Howell will hit the opening shot of the 143rd Open Championship when he tees up at Royal Liverpool on Thursday morning.

Howell, who recently made his 500th European Tour start at the Open De France, will have the honour after being paired with 2001 champion David Duval, of the United States, and Sweden's Robert Karlsson in the opening 6.25am tee time, after the draw made this morning.

Two-time Ryder Cup star Howell will be making his first appearance at the Open for five years, his best finish being tied seventh at Royal Birkdale in 2008.

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