Padraig Harrington enjoys few moments more than the walk down 18th fairway of a century-old links course, especially with a four-shot lead in the British Open and the engraver putting the final touches on the oldest trophy in golf.

Harrington made two, and an eagle, going four-under on his last six holes to shoot 69 and win the 137th British Open by four strokes over Ian Poulter (69).

“This year is more satisfying,” said Harrington, who becomes the second player in the last four years and the 16th player overall to successfully defend his title. “You know, to go out there and shoot 69 in that last round, I don’t think — if you had offered it to me last night I certainly would have taken it. It’s the first time that I was in the last group of a major tournament on Sunday. So it’s a different pressure, it’s a different stress, and I’m delighted I managed it.”

Harrington finished three over par for the tournament and earned $1.5 million for the victory.

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