Harrington earns Irish PGA title

Padraig Harrington has been struggling badly in recent months

Padraig Harrington took victory in the Ladbrokes.com Irish PGA Championship for the third successive year at The European Club on Saturday.

The Dubliner started the day four shots ahead of his nearest rivals and ended seven clear of Brian McElhinney.

A one-over-par 72 left Harrington one under for the tournament and the same score saw McElhinney finish six over, with Richard Kilptarick seven over.

Harrington has now won his national championship on six occasions.

The three-time major winner now heads to Turnberry to defend the Open title which he has won for the last two years.

606: DEBATE Harrington's winning display was exemplary PFW

Harrington's victory was a timely return to form after missing the cut at several events he had entered in recent weeks and suffering a slump in form following changes to his swing.