Thousands of loyal links lovers packed Congressional Country Club in Bethesda for the first round of the U.S. Open on Thursday, sporting sunglasses, fanny packs — and lots and lots of plaid. Many set up camp on a grassy hill near the clubhouse that provided an eagle-eye view of both the 10th and 18th greens, which is where Ryan McGee, of Herndon, was watching the morning action.

McGee made no bones about his allegiance — his face was painted orange, white and green in solidarity with Rory McIlroy, who is actually from Northern Ireland.