by Patrick McDonald Updated On: July 15, 2021, 6:03 pm ET The App is Back! Don’t forget to download the NBC Sports EDGE app to receive real-time player news, mobile alerts and track your favorite players. Plus, now you can check out articles and player cards. 6:35 a.m. local time, the 149th Open got underway. A trio of Englishmen held the duty of occupying Game 1, with journeyman, Richard Bland, donning the distinct honor of striking the first tee-shot. In the end, Bland, as well as countrymen, Andy Sullivan and Marcus Armitage, put together strong first-round efforts as all shot rounds of par or better.