UPDATE 1-Golf-Harrington toils as Kaymer shoots record tying 62

* British Open champion 10 shots behind leader

* German Kaymer sets French Open pace

(updates at end of round)

By Norman Dabell

ST QUENTIN, France, July 2 (Reuters) - Padraig Harrington, trying to get his game in shape to defend his British Open title, remained upbeat despite struggling again in Thursday's French Open first round.

The triple major champion from Ireland lagged 10 strokes behind leader Martin Kaymer of Germany, who equalled the course record of 62 after a blistering nine-under effort containing an eagle and eight birdies.

Last week's BMW International Open runner-up Rafa Echenique of Argentina shared second place on 65 with former winner John Bickerton of Britain, Thai Thongchai Jaidee, Australian Scott Strange and Swede Peter Hanson.

"Being one over par makes it tough for me for this week's tournament but I was very encouraged with the way I played," Harrington told reporters after his 72.