The British Open 2011 Leaderboard First Round. Thomas Bjorn of Denmark and Thomas Lewis of England surprisingly tied on top of the British Open 2011 Championship getting -5 under par in the first round while the much expected to rise and be the favorite Rory McIlroy is currently +1 over par. In the pre tournament discussions, McIlroy had all the attention and the focus as becoming the youngest Open winner after winning the US Open.

Bjorn magnificently played in the first round of the British Open 2011 as he gives a chance to revitalizes his career if he keeps on with the big names. Lewis just rallied as he played in the last groups of the day. Meanwhile Miguel Jimenez is just a stroke behind him at -4 who almost played flawlessly. It was anticipated to be a tough day for the golfers as the winds becomes a factor aside from the difficulties of the course.

Darren Clarke is -2 under par chasing in the first round of the British Open. Clarke is one of the favorites that he has to be in the top 10 after three rounds to have a chance for the title. Furthermore, Sergio Garcia is one of the notables that is playing well at EVEN. Ernie Els has the score of +2 over par and he is way down the current leaderboard.

Meanwhile McIlroy needs to play catch up in the next round just to be in the cut first but also thinking about winning. McIlroy can still dig deeper to win the British Open 2011. The course may not be great for him today but he will have the chance to redeem himself in the the next round.

Retief Goosen is currently at +6 over par in the tournament. He can play with precision also if given another chance.

The British Open Championships 2011 is televised on ESPN and ESPN 3. Can McIlroy be back in the next round?

The British Open 2011 Leaderboard First Round (Updated 18:25 Thursday EDT)