First-Timer Brown Survives Challenging Wind, Takes One-Shot Lead Over Lowry at British Open

Shane Lowry hits off the 12th tee during the opening round of the British Open in Troon, Scotland, on July 18, 2024. Jon Super/AP Photo

TROON, Scotland—The wind at the British Open caught just about everyone off guard Thursday. It came from the opposite direction off the Irish Sea, accompanied by occasional rain, and made Royal Troon a tougher test than anyone was expecting.

Turns out that wasn’t even the biggest surprise.