The early wave has the advantage. Rain has arrived at Royal Portrush, just as World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler hits the course. It's spotty around the course — it's pouring at 18, where Rory McIlroy is trying to finish — but clearly those already in the clubhouse — including leader Brian Harman — are the beneficiaries.

The morning had been too beautiful for angst. A perfect day stretched across the near-perfect course, the forever blue of the Irish Sea painting an idyllic backdrop. Perhaps it was too early for distress,