Lowry feels “rejuvenated” and as prepared as he could be in his bid to become the first player to win consecutive British Opens at the same course since Tiger Woods at St. Andrews in 2000 and ’05.

Shane Lowry didn’t know what to make of the mural at first. He doesn’t look at himself as someone worthy of being celebrated as a national hero.

Shane Lowry took the question on board, began to chuckle and then immediately made the universal gesture to signify a change of direction. ‘Yes I’ve seen it,’ Lowry replied with a wry smile. ‘I’m happy I have to drive the other way.