Course records fall in optimum conditions

The wind was a key factor on day two of the Open at Royal Birkdale and it was a similar story 25 miles to the south as a combination of fast ground and a strong tailwind resulted in course records falling in the opening two races.

The optimum conditions did not suit everyone, however, as 15 of the 20 non-runners were on account of the ground, officially described as good to firm, firm in places.

Many connections had declared in anticipation of forecast rain but very little arrived before racing and heavier showers predicted for the afternoon also failed to materialise.