Playing alongside amateurs and raising significant money for charity, Woods improved on his opening day 77 by posting a two-over round of 74 that included bogeys at both the par-5s that close the nines.

“We know how much JP means to golf and what he's done for our sport and any time we can help out any which way we possibly can, we do and this is one of the ways we can pay tribute to JP and what he's done,” Woods said of the event and host. “I know he hates limelight and he hates getting in front of cameras and all that but we'll go ahead and do that for him and make sure.”

Xander Schauffele had none of the issues Woods faced, making just one bogey over 36 holes the winner of the recent Travelers Championship on the PGA Tour signing for a two-under 70 on day two for a one shot win over Sam Burns.

Schauffele opened the event with a 64 and despite some impressive play from the chasing pack, was able to play the back nine in all pars for the win.

Adam Scott seemed to enjoy the start of his Open preparations at Adare Manor. PHOTO: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images.

“It would be pretty special,” Schauffele said of winning the event after signing his card with others still on the course. “I think JP does a pretty nice job of supporting the community, and for him to invite me and for me to be a part of this whole thing is pretty special as well.”

Matching Schauffele’s opening round score on the 2027 Ryder Cup host venue was Irish local Padraig Harrington, who is still full of confidence after claiming the U.S. Senior Open two weeks ago with the belief he can contend on the main Tour.

So too does Woods, who admitted he skipped the U.S. Open to ensure he would be a starter at the historic 150th Open Championship next week at St. Andrews, a venue where he is a two-time winner. (More HERE).

The 15-time major champion will stay in the region and although not willing to divulge exactly where, will now play some links golf to prepare for what will be just his third start since his single vehicle car accident early last year.

“I don't want to tell you because I don't want everyone coming down and watching us,” the former World No.1 said when asked of his plans.

Adam Scott was the lone Aussie in the field and finished in a share of 13th with fellow Masters winner Dustin Johnson.

Scott’s second round of one-under had plenty of ups and downs after a stretch of double bogey-birdie-bogey starting at the 2nd hole, the Queenslander rattled off a stretch of birdie-birdie-eagle after making the turn in some positive signs for his challenge at The Old Course.

Scott also got to enjoy some time watching father and fellow professional Phil play the amateur portion of day two.