CROMWELL, Connecticut, (Reuters) – Padraig  Harrington, fresh off a tie for 22nd place at last week’s U.S.  Open, fired seven birdies to grab a share of the early lead at  the Travelers Championship yesterday.

The only blemish on the Irishman’s scorecard was a bogey at  the par-four 14th en route to an opening round six-under-par 64  at the TPC River Highlands.

For Harrington, in search of his first PGA Tour win since  the 2008 PGA Championship, the course was a welcome change from  the fast-running conditions and small greens at Pebble Beach.

“It’s a different change of pace, but now that I’m leading  the tournament, it’s back to the old grind again,” Harrington  said. “If you hit it close, you’re confident you can get some  putts in a row and you’re not weary of leaving yourself two or  three-footers so it’s nice.”

Joining Harrington atop the leaderboard were Australia’s  Matthew Goggin and South Korea’s Charlie Wi, who each carded  bogey-free opening rounds.

Four players, including Americans Bubba Watson and Corey  Pavin were one shot off the pace. Kenny Perry, who won the  event last year, was five shots back of the leaders.