PGA Tour Honda Classic leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/the-honda-classic/leaderboard.html
PGA National, site of the Honda Classic in Palm Beach, Florida is a tough enough, water infested championship course featuring the legendary "Bear Trap", without the wind.
With the leading score held by American Brendan Steele only at 68 67 -5 after 36 holes, birdies are at a premium, and the wind today will be whipping to make matters worse.
Four of the five Canadians missed the cut, only Mac Hughes surviving T35th 71 72 +3.
He is not alone, Brooks Koepka 74 74 +8, Rickie Fowler +4, Eric van Rooyan +8, Louis Oosthuizen +9 are just some of the many.
My sites are set on a couple of re rejuvenated Englishmen who to no surprise can handle the wind. Lee Westwood with his new /old claw grip was the European Tour Player of the Month and here is at 67 69 -4 and Luke Donald 70 66 -4 are right in it. Both great world #1's who never won a major.
Remember Donald won it all in 2011, the first guy to win the money titles on the PGA and European Tours, world #1, he was that good. He was awarded the MBE in 2012 by the Queen.
In April 2018 he suffered a herniated disc and has been in rehab mode ever since and is now #456 in the world. Still short off the tee his short game is having a revival.
Another Englishman Tommy Fleetwood is at -2 and made his world leading 33rd straight cut, 13 more than anyone.
So with scoring so low, nobody is separated from a tightly packed leaderboard as you can see on my link above. 23 players are within 4 shots including Gary Woodland who plays well here.
Open champion Shane Lowry is 69 69 -2 and if anyone can play the wind, this Irishman can.
Enjoy your Saturday where ever you are and join me later to wrap this day up !!
Bryan Angus
Saturday, February 29, 2020
Thursday, February 27, 2020
Honda Classic features 5 Canadians as the Florida Swing begins.. live scoreboard..
PGA Tour Honda Classic leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/the-honda-classic/leaderboard.html
The first event of the "Florida Swing" is under way this morning under partly sunny skies at the Honda Classic in ritzy Palm Beach Gardens and it features 5 Canadians this week, Corey Connors, David Hearn, Roger Sloan, Mac Hughes and Michael Gligic.
Brooks Koepka is the top ranked player, Rickie Fowler has emerged from goodness knows where, Victor Hovland from Norway, last week's winner, is paired with another exciting young star from Chile, Joaquin Niemann. Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose are waving the English flag and little Louis Oosthuizen continues his globe trotting from South Africa to play with another Open champion Shane Lowry.
There are 4 events in Florida on this swing, next week its the Arnold Palmer Invitational, then the Players at TPC Sawgrass and then the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook where Adam Hadwin won in 2017.
I never enjoyed playing Florida that much and these week's are a perfect example why, water everywhere ! I learned to play as a Scot on links courses and to this day always play my best on firm courses where I can run the ball.
Remember this PGA National course has the famous Bear Trap 15-17.
Follow my Canadian customized live scoreboard by clicking on the link above.
Bryan Angus
The first event of the "Florida Swing" is under way this morning under partly sunny skies at the Honda Classic in ritzy Palm Beach Gardens and it features 5 Canadians this week, Corey Connors, David Hearn, Roger Sloan, Mac Hughes and Michael Gligic.
Brooks Koepka is the top ranked player, Rickie Fowler has emerged from goodness knows where, Victor Hovland from Norway, last week's winner, is paired with another exciting young star from Chile, Joaquin Niemann. Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose are waving the English flag and little Louis Oosthuizen continues his globe trotting from South Africa to play with another Open champion Shane Lowry.
There are 4 events in Florida on this swing, next week its the Arnold Palmer Invitational, then the Players at TPC Sawgrass and then the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook where Adam Hadwin won in 2017.
I never enjoyed playing Florida that much and these week's are a perfect example why, water everywhere ! I learned to play as a Scot on links courses and to this day always play my best on firm courses where I can run the ball.
Remember this PGA National course has the famous Bear Trap 15-17.
Follow my Canadian customized live scoreboard by clicking on the link above.
Bryan Angus
Monday, February 24, 2020
Monday morning shag bag..Hovland gets 1st career win, Reed rolls right along, another Rory T5
WGC Mexico Open final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/wgc-mexico-championship/en/leaderboard.html
Well, Patrick Reed proved once again to be as adept a golfer as he is dodging never ending questions about his character. With solid rounds 69 63 67 67 -18 he did just enough to beat his brother in arms, heavily criticized, Bryson DeChambeau 68 73 71 65 -17.
Jon Rahm and Erik van Rooyen T3 -15 with Rory 65 69 68 68 -14 in 5th.
Reed will never waver from his stance that he doesn't cheat, never will, as he contends he is innocent of the accusations, no matter how obvious. He was at his best again yesterday when asked how he'll be when he and Koepka are paired together next. " Fine, I'll just tee it up and play, and we'll do our best to win"
Rory got off to the good start I talked about with 3 birdies in his first 6 holes and went out in 32, but he just stalled on the back nine with a bogey at 12 before a lone birdie at 16 for 36 and -3 68 -14 total.
When you look at his numbers these stand out for me: shots gained putting on Thursday's 65 were 3.6, the rest of the week 0.5 (average), and pars 47, birdies 18, only 6 bogey's.
He played very well, heck he was 5th again, but just fell short by 4 strokes, missing some crucial birdie putts when he needed them.
All said he remains at world #1. Corey Connors had a tough back nine, finished with 75, 50th.
Puerto Rico Open final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/puerto-rico-open/leaderboard.html
I've outlined Victor Hovland's career in earlier posts this week, and am I delighted he broke through yesterday (68 66 64 70 -20), albeit in sensational style with a chip in eagle at the 15th, and a 30 footer across the final green for birdie to beat a valiant 40 year old journeyman Josh Teater, looking for his first win in 196 starts.
In just his 17th event he joins Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Hideki Matsuyama and Collin Morikawa as the last players to win at just 22. He is also big news back home as the first Norwegian champion on the PGA Tour.
Like I said on Friday, "Watch out for Victor Hovland !"
Bryan Angus
Well, Patrick Reed proved once again to be as adept a golfer as he is dodging never ending questions about his character. With solid rounds 69 63 67 67 -18 he did just enough to beat his brother in arms, heavily criticized, Bryson DeChambeau 68 73 71 65 -17.
Jon Rahm and Erik van Rooyen T3 -15 with Rory 65 69 68 68 -14 in 5th.
Reed will never waver from his stance that he doesn't cheat, never will, as he contends he is innocent of the accusations, no matter how obvious. He was at his best again yesterday when asked how he'll be when he and Koepka are paired together next. " Fine, I'll just tee it up and play, and we'll do our best to win"
Rory got off to the good start I talked about with 3 birdies in his first 6 holes and went out in 32, but he just stalled on the back nine with a bogey at 12 before a lone birdie at 16 for 36 and -3 68 -14 total.
When you look at his numbers these stand out for me: shots gained putting on Thursday's 65 were 3.6, the rest of the week 0.5 (average), and pars 47, birdies 18, only 6 bogey's.
He played very well, heck he was 5th again, but just fell short by 4 strokes, missing some crucial birdie putts when he needed them.
All said he remains at world #1. Corey Connors had a tough back nine, finished with 75, 50th.
Puerto Rico Open final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/puerto-rico-open/leaderboard.html
I've outlined Victor Hovland's career in earlier posts this week, and am I delighted he broke through yesterday (68 66 64 70 -20), albeit in sensational style with a chip in eagle at the 15th, and a 30 footer across the final green for birdie to beat a valiant 40 year old journeyman Josh Teater, looking for his first win in 196 starts.
In just his 17th event he joins Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Hideki Matsuyama and Collin Morikawa as the last players to win at just 22. He is also big news back home as the first Norwegian champion on the PGA Tour.
Like I said on Friday, "Watch out for Victor Hovland !"
Bryan Angus
Sunday, February 23, 2020
Justin Thomas the man to beat on Sunday at WGC Mexico Open.. live scoring..
WGC Mexican Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/leaderboard.html
Justin Thomas as we all know is one of the world's best, and his record at Club de Golf Chapultepec is very good, 9th last year, 2nd in 2018 and 5th in 2017.
So with rounds of 67 66 65 -15 it's no surprise he leads going into today's final round. However with this course surrendering 63's 62's and yesterday a course record 61 by big Jon Rahm it will take another low score for him to hold on and break into the winners circle.
Right behind him at -14 the European Tour's Erik van Rooyen (67) and Patrick Reed (67), then a 3 shot gap to -11 for Rahm (61), Rory (68) and Bryson DeChambeau (71).
If I may venture this. I've followed Rory from boyhood, through his teens and now as a man of 30 atop the World Rankings and one thing stands out regarding his play on Sunday's. If he smokes a good drive on the first, hits a solid iron and a good putt he is usually off to the races.
When he doesn't, remember his first hole at last years' Open, an iron tee shot OB leading to an 8, he usually struggles, so watch for him early.
Corey Connors 68 70 72 -3 T24..
Bryan Angus
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Justin Thomas as we all know is one of the world's best, and his record at Club de Golf Chapultepec is very good, 9th last year, 2nd in 2018 and 5th in 2017.
So with rounds of 67 66 65 -15 it's no surprise he leads going into today's final round. However with this course surrendering 63's 62's and yesterday a course record 61 by big Jon Rahm it will take another low score for him to hold on and break into the winners circle.
Right behind him at -14 the European Tour's Erik van Rooyen (67) and Patrick Reed (67), then a 3 shot gap to -11 for Rahm (61), Rory (68) and Bryson DeChambeau (71).
If I may venture this. I've followed Rory from boyhood, through his teens and now as a man of 30 atop the World Rankings and one thing stands out regarding his play on Sunday's. If he smokes a good drive on the first, hits a solid iron and a good putt he is usually off to the races.
When he doesn't, remember his first hole at last years' Open, an iron tee shot OB leading to an 8, he usually struggles, so watch for him early.
Corey Connors 68 70 72 -3 T24..
Bryan Angus
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Hovland poised for 1st PGA Tour win at Puerto Rico Open... Sunday scoreboard
Puerto Rico Open live scoring https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/puerto-rico-open/leaderboard.html
Just a note that Jhonattan Vegas has already posted a 4th round 62 early this Sunday morning at the Puerto Rico Open to shoot 54 spots up the leaderboard T4, this well before the leaders have begun, so we know the low scoring will continue today.
As I wrote about Victor Hovland yesterday, I'm not surprised to see him atop the leaderboard 68 66 64 -18, a shot ahead of Scotsman Martin Laird 67 69 63 -17 and then American, Josh Teater 66 68 66 -16.
This trio leads a pack of four at -13 and six more at -12, so it's no done deal that the winner will come from the top 3, but they better make birdies, and not just a couple. Emiliano Grillo was leading heading into Saturday and lost 5 shots with a 69 !
Roger Sloan is at -5 well into his back nine.
Hovland says he's been losing his composure recently when he misses a shot, or a putt, and he and his caddy have addressed that. They are determined to go out and have fun today, knowing they are playing very well.
Don't be surprised if it works out. It will sooner or later.
Bryan Angus
Just a note that Jhonattan Vegas has already posted a 4th round 62 early this Sunday morning at the Puerto Rico Open to shoot 54 spots up the leaderboard T4, this well before the leaders have begun, so we know the low scoring will continue today.
As I wrote about Victor Hovland yesterday, I'm not surprised to see him atop the leaderboard 68 66 64 -18, a shot ahead of Scotsman Martin Laird 67 69 63 -17 and then American, Josh Teater 66 68 66 -16.
This trio leads a pack of four at -13 and six more at -12, so it's no done deal that the winner will come from the top 3, but they better make birdies, and not just a couple. Emiliano Grillo was leading heading into Saturday and lost 5 shots with a 69 !
Roger Sloan is at -5 well into his back nine.
Hovland says he's been losing his composure recently when he misses a shot, or a putt, and he and his caddy have addressed that. They are determined to go out and have fun today, knowing they are playing very well.
Don't be surprised if it works out. It will sooner or later.
Bryan Angus
Saturday, February 22, 2020
Watch for Victor Hovland at Puerto Rico Open.. Roger Sloan at -6.. live scoreboard
PGA Tour Puerto Rico Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/puerto-rico-open/leaderboard.html
Victor Hovland is another young gun to watch out for.
At 22 he is one of a few young Norwegian lads who didn't grow up as a world class skier, or a footballer like most of his mates, he took up golf and was so good he won their 2014 amateur championship, then a scholarship at Oklahoma State where he won the 2018 US Amateur Championship at Pebble Beach then went on the be the low amateur at the Masters and the US Open.
His father was working in St Louis as an engineer and brought a set of clubs home to Oslo for 11 year old Victor who spent the winter practicing in in indoor driving range.
He turned pro in 2019 and won his PGA Tour card via the Korn Ferry playoffs. He got everyone's attention with 18 straight rounds in the 60's on the PGA Tour.
Yesterday in the wind at the Puerto Rico Open he shot -6 66 to join Emiliano Grillo (68) Josh Teater (68) and Kyle Stanley (70) for the 36 hole lead at -10.
Roger Sloan was the only Canadian to make the cut and his 3rd round is already done. His scores 73 69 68 -6.
Bryan Angus
Victor Hovland is another young gun to watch out for.
At 22 he is one of a few young Norwegian lads who didn't grow up as a world class skier, or a footballer like most of his mates, he took up golf and was so good he won their 2014 amateur championship, then a scholarship at Oklahoma State where he won the 2018 US Amateur Championship at Pebble Beach then went on the be the low amateur at the Masters and the US Open.
His father was working in St Louis as an engineer and brought a set of clubs home to Oslo for 11 year old Victor who spent the winter practicing in in indoor driving range.
He turned pro in 2019 and won his PGA Tour card via the Korn Ferry playoffs. He got everyone's attention with 18 straight rounds in the 60's on the PGA Tour.
Yesterday in the wind at the Puerto Rico Open he shot -6 66 to join Emiliano Grillo (68) Josh Teater (68) and Kyle Stanley (70) for the 36 hole lead at -10.
Roger Sloan was the only Canadian to make the cut and his 3rd round is already done. His scores 73 69 68 -6.
Bryan Angus
Corey Connors sits 10th at WGC Mexico Open...DeChambeau leads with 63.. live scoring..
WGC Mexico Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/wgc-mexico-championship/en/leaderboard.html
The breeze blowing on Thursday went away on Friday leaving Chapultepec GC defenseless with the average score 70.28, over 2 shots easier. For most of the leaders it was a birdie barrage at this WGC Mexico Open.
Bryson DeChambeau has been busier than most this year with a trip to Saudi Arabia thrown in and his game seems to be benefiting from his off season weights regime and his attempt to speed up his game.
Yesterday he was long and straight and made 7 birdies in 8 holes on his way to -8 63 and at -11 131 he takes a precarious 1 shot lead into today's play. South African Erik van Rooyen has moved to Florida, and he tied the course record -9 62, while much maligned Patrick Reed shot -8 63, both T2 at -10.
Remember Thursday Rory was effortless with his 65 in the wind, yesterday he made 8 straight pars and had to end with 2 birdies for a -2 69 to sit 6th at -8, just 3 shots off the lead.
Hideki Matsuyama 64, Justin Thomas 66 are 4th at -9.
Corey Connors couldn't get in on the birdiefest. He did have 2 on the front nine, 1 bogey at the 16th on the back, and all the rest were pars. At 68 70 -4 he is alone in 10th.
Bryan Angus
The breeze blowing on Thursday went away on Friday leaving Chapultepec GC defenseless with the average score 70.28, over 2 shots easier. For most of the leaders it was a birdie barrage at this WGC Mexico Open.
Bryson DeChambeau has been busier than most this year with a trip to Saudi Arabia thrown in and his game seems to be benefiting from his off season weights regime and his attempt to speed up his game.
Yesterday he was long and straight and made 7 birdies in 8 holes on his way to -8 63 and at -11 131 he takes a precarious 1 shot lead into today's play. South African Erik van Rooyen has moved to Florida, and he tied the course record -9 62, while much maligned Patrick Reed shot -8 63, both T2 at -10.
Remember Thursday Rory was effortless with his 65 in the wind, yesterday he made 8 straight pars and had to end with 2 birdies for a -2 69 to sit 6th at -8, just 3 shots off the lead.
Hideki Matsuyama 64, Justin Thomas 66 are 4th at -9.
Corey Connors couldn't get in on the birdiefest. He did have 2 on the front nine, 1 bogey at the 16th on the back, and all the rest were pars. At 68 70 -4 he is alone in 10th.
Bryan Angus
Friday, February 21, 2020
Hearn leads Canadians at windy Puerto Rico Open
Puerto Rico Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/puerto-rico-open/leaderboard.html
With 9 birdies and a bogey, Kyle Stanley's -8 64 was the best of round 1 on a windy day at the Coco Beach G&CC in the Puerto Rico Open.
England's Tom Lewis (73 +1), ranked #57 is the highest ranked player in the field to give you an idea of why this is an alternative event to the WGC Mexican Open.
Canadians : David Hearn T45 -2 70, Michael Gligic -1 71, Roger Sloan +1 73, Derek Gillespie +3 75.
The cut is projected at -1 as round two begins today.
Bryan Angus
With 9 birdies and a bogey, Kyle Stanley's -8 64 was the best of round 1 on a windy day at the Coco Beach G&CC in the Puerto Rico Open.
England's Tom Lewis (73 +1), ranked #57 is the highest ranked player in the field to give you an idea of why this is an alternative event to the WGC Mexican Open.
Canadians : David Hearn T45 -2 70, Michael Gligic -1 71, Roger Sloan +1 73, Derek Gillespie +3 75.
The cut is projected at -1 as round two begins today.
Bryan Angus
Effortless 65 has McIlroy leading WGC Mexican Open.. Connors T4.. Live scoring
WGC Mexican Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/wgc-mexico-championship/en/leaderboard.html
On an opening day at the WGC Mexican Open where a breeze, the tight tree lined fairways and poa annua greens at the Chapultepec GC kept all but 18 players from breaking par 71, Rory McIlroy was at his best, driving the ball miles in the thin air, striking beautifully controlled irons, and making putts with a return to an old faithful putter. He used only 26.
An eagle and 5 birdies later his -6 65 leads the pack by 2 heading into today's 2nd round. The course is at 7800 feet above sea level, and the fairways were soft and holding.
" I took advantage of the way I drove the ball today. With the fairways being so soft I just teed it up and launched it" was Rory's explanation.
Last year at -16 268, he lost by 5 shots to Dustin Johnson, who opened this year with +5 76. With a win here this year Rory would have won all four WGC events, like DJ.
Corey Connors is T4 after his -3 68, which was spoiled a little by a 3 putt bogey from 10 feet at the 15th.
T2 at -4 67 are Bubba Watson and Justin Thomas. Last week's winner at Riviera, Adam Scott opened with +3 74.
McIlroy prides himself with his consistency, he has had 5 straight top 5 finishes and 14/15 last PGA Tour events inside the top seven. That is the biggest improvement in his game, leading to all his honours last year.
Follow live scoring on the customized link above.
Bryan Angus
On an opening day at the WGC Mexican Open where a breeze, the tight tree lined fairways and poa annua greens at the Chapultepec GC kept all but 18 players from breaking par 71, Rory McIlroy was at his best, driving the ball miles in the thin air, striking beautifully controlled irons, and making putts with a return to an old faithful putter. He used only 26.
An eagle and 5 birdies later his -6 65 leads the pack by 2 heading into today's 2nd round. The course is at 7800 feet above sea level, and the fairways were soft and holding.
" I took advantage of the way I drove the ball today. With the fairways being so soft I just teed it up and launched it" was Rory's explanation.
Last year at -16 268, he lost by 5 shots to Dustin Johnson, who opened this year with +5 76. With a win here this year Rory would have won all four WGC events, like DJ.
Corey Connors is T4 after his -3 68, which was spoiled a little by a 3 putt bogey from 10 feet at the 15th.
T2 at -4 67 are Bubba Watson and Justin Thomas. Last week's winner at Riviera, Adam Scott opened with +3 74.
McIlroy prides himself with his consistency, he has had 5 straight top 5 finishes and 14/15 last PGA Tour events inside the top seven. That is the biggest improvement in his game, leading to all his honours last year.
Follow live scoring on the customized link above.
Bryan Angus
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Four Canadians in this week's Puerto Rico Open.. leaderboard
PGA Tour Puerto Rico Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/puerto-rico-open/leaderboard.html
This week's Puerto Rico Open is one of those all important alternative tournaments, running alongside the WGC Mexico Open. I say all important because it carries full privileges and also gives guys who have been on the fringes playing wherever they can, as well as PGA Tour regulars a chance to play.
Derek Gillespie is a great example. He is one of four Canadians in the field. The veteran from Oshawa has been playing around the world where and whenever he can and he Monday qualified for this one. David Hearn, Roger Sloan and Michael Gligic are the others.
Guys like Aussie Robert Allenby, Freddie Jacobson from Sweden and Bill Haas, remember him, he won the Fed Ex Cup a few years ago and has rarely been heard of since are hoping to catch lightning in a bottle.
This is also a great week for the host, Grand Reserve CC, to let the world know about their resort, (Coco Beach G&CC) usually in spectacular weather by the Caribbean while much of North America is in the depths of winter.
Follow all their scores on my customized link above.
Bryan Angus
This week's Puerto Rico Open is one of those all important alternative tournaments, running alongside the WGC Mexico Open. I say all important because it carries full privileges and also gives guys who have been on the fringes playing wherever they can, as well as PGA Tour regulars a chance to play.
Derek Gillespie is a great example. He is one of four Canadians in the field. The veteran from Oshawa has been playing around the world where and whenever he can and he Monday qualified for this one. David Hearn, Roger Sloan and Michael Gligic are the others.
Guys like Aussie Robert Allenby, Freddie Jacobson from Sweden and Bill Haas, remember him, he won the Fed Ex Cup a few years ago and has rarely been heard of since are hoping to catch lightning in a bottle.
This is also a great week for the host, Grand Reserve CC, to let the world know about their resort, (Coco Beach G&CC) usually in spectacular weather by the Caribbean while much of North America is in the depths of winter.
Follow all their scores on my customized link above.
Bryan Angus
Wednesday, February 19, 2020
Rory headlines WGC Mexico Championship... tee times..
WGC Mexico Championship Thursday tee times https://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/wgc-mexico-championship/en/tee-times.html
Get the hang of this course's name just outside Mexico City.. Club de Golf Chapultepec.. designed by Scotsman Alex Smith in 1921.
Its a tight tree lined course just outside a very busy Mexico City.
It begs the question.. why are #1 Rory McIlroy etal golfing here this weekend for the WGC Mexico Championship..
The world's top 60 are here for a huge no cut, $1.8m pay day..
Answer: Tourism !..4 days of world wide coverage of the world's best on International TV in Mexico City is worth a fortune... hopefully for golf and the Mexican economy.
The defending champion is Dustin Johnson who won by 5 over Rory McIlroy last year
Corey Connors is the lone Canuck off tee #1 at 11.27 with Aussie and Sony Open winner Cameron Smith and in form Matt Kuchar.
See you in the morning !!
Bryan Angus
Get the hang of this course's name just outside Mexico City.. Club de Golf Chapultepec.. designed by Scotsman Alex Smith in 1921.
Its a tight tree lined course just outside a very busy Mexico City.
It begs the question.. why are #1 Rory McIlroy etal golfing here this weekend for the WGC Mexico Championship..
The world's top 60 are here for a huge no cut, $1.8m pay day..
Answer: Tourism !..4 days of world wide coverage of the world's best on International TV in Mexico City is worth a fortune... hopefully for golf and the Mexican economy.
The defending champion is Dustin Johnson who won by 5 over Rory McIlroy last year
Corey Connors is the lone Canuck off tee #1 at 11.27 with Aussie and Sony Open winner Cameron Smith and in form Matt Kuchar.
See you in the morning !!
Bryan Angus
Monday, February 17, 2020
Watch out for Weirsy ! Veteran shoots 65 at LeCom Suncoast Classic.. final leaderboard
Korn Ferry Tour LeCom Suncoast Classic final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/korn-ferry-tour/leaderboard.html
Many golf fans I speak with about Mike Weir, remember him fondly for his 2003 Masters win, he was the toast of the country, Athlete of the Year, Lou Marsh winner, in demand wherever he went.
17 years later I'm asked all the time, "what ever happened to Weirsy?". Most remember he tore up his elbow, tried to come back too soon and eventually lost his game altogether.
Well I'm here to tell you "watch out for Weirsy!" A lot of water has passed under his bridge, a divorce from Bricia, time off to be with daughters Lili and Elle, and with their blessing, back to the grind of pro golf, with an eye on May 12th, 2020, the day he turns 50 and joins the PGA Tour Champions.
He's traveled the world, playing wherever he is invited or is eligible, sometimes on the European Tour and mostly these days on the Korn Ferry Tour.
This weekend was a good one for Weirsy with rounds of 70, 68 68 65 -17 six shots off the lead, T17 down in Lakewood, Florida at the LeCom Suncoast Classic.
T17 doesn't make headlines, but for those who know him and have followed his long road back, this was a "super" week, in his words.
After an opening bogey, he produced five birdies and a rare albatross on the par 5 6th, a hybrid 4 iron from 230 yards for a 2.
" I'm trying to stay sharp, this is a positive sign as I move closer to that magic number 50. I just want to stay competitive here to get me ready for it.
The only thing missing all week was my short game. For the most part my putting was a bit below average. If I had sharpened that up I really would have been right at the top. I only made one putt from 8 feet all day today, had eagle looks on 4 and 16.
It's still a great score don't get me wrong, I'm super happy but that round could have one of those super special ones !"
Other Canadians: Ben Silverman showed a nice return to form, 67 67 70 66 -18 T11, Adam Svensson and Taylor Pendrith, 68 66 70 69 -15 T26
Bryan Angus
Many golf fans I speak with about Mike Weir, remember him fondly for his 2003 Masters win, he was the toast of the country, Athlete of the Year, Lou Marsh winner, in demand wherever he went.
17 years later I'm asked all the time, "what ever happened to Weirsy?". Most remember he tore up his elbow, tried to come back too soon and eventually lost his game altogether.
Well I'm here to tell you "watch out for Weirsy!" A lot of water has passed under his bridge, a divorce from Bricia, time off to be with daughters Lili and Elle, and with their blessing, back to the grind of pro golf, with an eye on May 12th, 2020, the day he turns 50 and joins the PGA Tour Champions.
He's traveled the world, playing wherever he is invited or is eligible, sometimes on the European Tour and mostly these days on the Korn Ferry Tour.
This weekend was a good one for Weirsy with rounds of 70, 68 68 65 -17 six shots off the lead, T17 down in Lakewood, Florida at the LeCom Suncoast Classic.
T17 doesn't make headlines, but for those who know him and have followed his long road back, this was a "super" week, in his words.
After an opening bogey, he produced five birdies and a rare albatross on the par 5 6th, a hybrid 4 iron from 230 yards for a 2.
" I'm trying to stay sharp, this is a positive sign as I move closer to that magic number 50. I just want to stay competitive here to get me ready for it.
The only thing missing all week was my short game. For the most part my putting was a bit below average. If I had sharpened that up I really would have been right at the top. I only made one putt from 8 feet all day today, had eagle looks on 4 and 16.
It's still a great score don't get me wrong, I'm super happy but that round could have one of those super special ones !"
Other Canadians: Ben Silverman showed a nice return to form, 67 67 70 66 -18 T11, Adam Svensson and Taylor Pendrith, 68 66 70 69 -15 T26
Bryan Angus
Sunday, February 16, 2020
Adam Scott holds on to win Genesis Invitational.. final scoreboard
Genesis Invitational final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/genesis-invitational/leaderboard.html
The Presidents Cup may not be a big deal to fans in the USA as they haven't had much competition from the International Team with a 11-1-1 record, but this year in Melbourne was different with Ernie Els team pushing the US to the brink before losing 16-14.
Els won universal praise for his leadership, and on Sunday evening after a thrilling finale and many beers he told his team he wouldn't be back as captain, but insisted that all of the team would have to push their personal games to new heights if they were ever going to win. That hit home to the 3 Aussies, Adam Scott, Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman.
In January, Smith won the Sony Open, weeks later Leishman won the Farmers Insurance. Adam Scott was watching at home.
Inspired he showed up finally this week at the Genesis Open, not having played in over a month, hungry and motivated.
Looking lean and fit at 39, he turned in rounds of 72, 64,67 and 70 -11 good enough for a 2 shot win, his first since 2016 on the PGA Tour and he paid tribute to his experience in Melbourne and his renewed expectations.
" I've seen it before with some guys off the back of incredible Presidents Cup experience where there is pressure and guys really elevate their games then put that into practice when they get back on tour."
While others around him faltered on a tough unyielding Riviera he made crucial shots when he had to, including a 10 footer on the 17th to give him a 2 shot cushion, for his 14th win tying fellow Aussie, Bruce Crampton and trailing Greg Norman with 20.
Matt Kuchar T2 -9, Rory (73) T5 -8, Dustin Johnson (72) T10 -7, while Adam Hadwin (70) T26 -3.
Tiger had a 76 77 weekend to finish dead last at +11.
Bryan Angus
The Presidents Cup may not be a big deal to fans in the USA as they haven't had much competition from the International Team with a 11-1-1 record, but this year in Melbourne was different with Ernie Els team pushing the US to the brink before losing 16-14.
Els won universal praise for his leadership, and on Sunday evening after a thrilling finale and many beers he told his team he wouldn't be back as captain, but insisted that all of the team would have to push their personal games to new heights if they were ever going to win. That hit home to the 3 Aussies, Adam Scott, Cameron Smith and Marc Leishman.
In January, Smith won the Sony Open, weeks later Leishman won the Farmers Insurance. Adam Scott was watching at home.
Inspired he showed up finally this week at the Genesis Open, not having played in over a month, hungry and motivated.
Looking lean and fit at 39, he turned in rounds of 72, 64,67 and 70 -11 good enough for a 2 shot win, his first since 2016 on the PGA Tour and he paid tribute to his experience in Melbourne and his renewed expectations.
" I've seen it before with some guys off the back of incredible Presidents Cup experience where there is pressure and guys really elevate their games then put that into practice when they get back on tour."
While others around him faltered on a tough unyielding Riviera he made crucial shots when he had to, including a 10 footer on the 17th to give him a 2 shot cushion, for his 14th win tying fellow Aussie, Bruce Crampton and trailing Greg Norman with 20.
Matt Kuchar T2 -9, Rory (73) T5 -8, Dustin Johnson (72) T10 -7, while Adam Hadwin (70) T26 -3.
Tiger had a 76 77 weekend to finish dead last at +11.
Bryan Angus
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Canadians drop out of contention on the Korn Ferry Tour, LeCom Suncoast Classic.. live scoreboard
LeCom Suncoast Classic Sunday scoreboard https://www.pgatour.com/korn-ferry-tour/leaderboard.html
They are anything but triplets but 3 of the 4 Canadians in this weeks LeCom Suncoast Classic at Lakewood Ranch in Florida, Ben Silverman, Taylor Pendrith and Adam Svensson, have identical -12 scores, all T25 and all shot 70 yesterday to slip 6 shots out of the lead.
The 4th member Mike Weir 70 68 68 -10 is T41.
Leading a tightly packed scoreboard is Peter Uihlein 68 64 66 -18. He is the wealthy son of Wally Uihlein, former President and CEO of Acushnet who own several golf brands including Titleist and Footjoy. Acushnet was sold to a Korean conglomerate in 2011 for $1.23 billion.
There are 26 players within 5 shots of the lead.
Bryan Angus
They are anything but triplets but 3 of the 4 Canadians in this weeks LeCom Suncoast Classic at Lakewood Ranch in Florida, Ben Silverman, Taylor Pendrith and Adam Svensson, have identical -12 scores, all T25 and all shot 70 yesterday to slip 6 shots out of the lead.
The 4th member Mike Weir 70 68 68 -10 is T41.
Leading a tightly packed scoreboard is Peter Uihlein 68 64 66 -18. He is the wealthy son of Wally Uihlein, former President and CEO of Acushnet who own several golf brands including Titleist and Footjoy. Acushnet was sold to a Korean conglomerate in 2011 for $1.23 billion.
There are 26 players within 5 shots of the lead.
Bryan Angus
McIlroy, Scott, Kuchar in the final threesome at Genesis Invitational.. Sunday tee times, live scoring
Genesis Invitational Sunday tee times/ scoreboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/genesis-invitational/leaderboard.html
Riviera , just off Sunset Blvd., has always been reknown as a home to the stars, especially during the golden age of Hollywood, so its fitting that three of today's marquee players should form the final threesome, tied for the lead at -10 at this Genesis sponsored Invitational.
Player of the Year, world #1 and Fed Ex champion Rory McIlroy (68 67 68) was 4th here a year ago, Adam Scott (72 64 67) now 39 is back to playing the way he did at 29 and steady Matt Kuchar (64 69 70), disgraced 2 years ago after his WGC win in Mexico by being a greedy cheapskate with his fill in caddie will tee off last with a bevy of stars, Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm Hideki Matsuyama and Bryson DeChambeau amongst them, right in contention behind them.
Scott won a rain shortened 36 holer here in 2005, and last won the Australian PGA back in December. His last PGA Tour wins were in 2016.
Tiger who is hosting this week is near the bottom of the leaderboard at +5 69 73 76 as he continues his futility (never winning) at Riviera.
Adam Hadwin beat him by 6 shots in their threesome yesterday and he is T36 71 71 69 -2.
There are 13 players within 4 shots of the lead, and with the short par 5's and little rough, it is only the design of this iconic course and it's firm tricky greens that are keeping the scoring at a premium. A playoff looks likely, but there have been several 64's this week.
Bryan Angus
Riviera , just off Sunset Blvd., has always been reknown as a home to the stars, especially during the golden age of Hollywood, so its fitting that three of today's marquee players should form the final threesome, tied for the lead at -10 at this Genesis sponsored Invitational.
Player of the Year, world #1 and Fed Ex champion Rory McIlroy (68 67 68) was 4th here a year ago, Adam Scott (72 64 67) now 39 is back to playing the way he did at 29 and steady Matt Kuchar (64 69 70), disgraced 2 years ago after his WGC win in Mexico by being a greedy cheapskate with his fill in caddie will tee off last with a bevy of stars, Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm Hideki Matsuyama and Bryson DeChambeau amongst them, right in contention behind them.
Scott won a rain shortened 36 holer here in 2005, and last won the Australian PGA back in December. His last PGA Tour wins were in 2016.
Tiger who is hosting this week is near the bottom of the leaderboard at +5 69 73 76 as he continues his futility (never winning) at Riviera.
Adam Hadwin beat him by 6 shots in their threesome yesterday and he is T36 71 71 69 -2.
There are 13 players within 4 shots of the lead, and with the short par 5's and little rough, it is only the design of this iconic course and it's firm tricky greens that are keeping the scoring at a premium. A playoff looks likely, but there have been several 64's this week.
Bryan Angus
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The Northern Irishman is wary of his Sunday playing partners, but also knows this is far from a race in three. Just a shot behind the lead trio sits Russell Henley and Harold Varner III, while Dustin Johnson and Joel Dahmen are two back. Nine others, including Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau and Hideki Matsuyama are within four of the lead.
“You just have to worry about yourself, concentrate on what you're doing, do it well, set yourself a target, don't think about anyone else and if that's good enough at the end of the day, then great,” McIlroy says. “If not, then someone just played better than you and hats off to them.
Saturday, February 15, 2020
Canadians including Mike Weir right in contention at the LeCom Suncoast Classic in Florida.. live scoreboard
LeCom Suncoast Classic tee times/leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/korn-ferry-tour/tournaments/lecom-suncoast-classic/leaderboard.html
The crowded Saturday leaderboard at this LeCom Suncoast Classic at Lakewood Ranch, Florida reflects the steady climb of professional golf in Canada.
The leaders at -12 are big hitting American Robert Garrigus (70 62), fabulously wealthy Peter Uihlein (68 64) and Jack McGuire (66 66).
However just 2 shots back in a group at -10 are 3 Canadians, Ben Silverman ( 67 67), Taylor Pendrith (68 66) and Adam Svensson (68 66) and at 70, 68 -6 is Mike Weir who 15 years ago was the only Canadian on the PGA Tour.
There are 41 players within 5 shots of the lead so look out for a Sunday shootout.
Bryan Angus
The crowded Saturday leaderboard at this LeCom Suncoast Classic at Lakewood Ranch, Florida reflects the steady climb of professional golf in Canada.
The leaders at -12 are big hitting American Robert Garrigus (70 62), fabulously wealthy Peter Uihlein (68 64) and Jack McGuire (66 66).
However just 2 shots back in a group at -10 are 3 Canadians, Ben Silverman ( 67 67), Taylor Pendrith (68 66) and Adam Svensson (68 66) and at 70, 68 -6 is Mike Weir who 15 years ago was the only Canadian on the PGA Tour.
There are 41 players within 5 shots of the lead so look out for a Sunday shootout.
Bryan Angus
Hadwin, Woods, Spieth together today at Genesis Invitational... tee times, live scoreboard
Genesis Invitational Saturday tee times, leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/genesis-invitational/leaderboard.html
Golf is a fickle game isn't it. Last week Nick Taylor outplayed Phil Mickelson to win at Pebble Beach, this week they both missed the cut, Taylor by a shot with rounds of 71 73.
Today it's Adam Hadwin's (71 71) turn in the spotlight as he is paired with Tiger (69 73) for the first time, and Jordan Spieth (72 70). All three are well back at E, T45.
Adam admits that having their first child back in January has changed their normal routine, and in fact his perspective. Golf is important but is no longer the be all and end all.. welcome to parenthood Adam !
They are 9 shots off the lead held by steady Matt Kuchar (64 69 -9) who is atop a very crowded leaderboard, birdies are at a premium at Riviera this week.
There are 19 players within 5 shots including Rory (68 67 -7), Adam Scott (72 64 -6), Jon Rahm (68 70 -4), defending champion JB Holmes (69 69 -4), Dustin Johnson (72,66 -4), so tons of firepower for what should be a tight race to the finish come Sunday in L.A. There is not much rough at Riviera which is keeping the field bunched.
Other Canadians: Nick Taylor 71 73 +2, Corey Connors 70 75 +4 and Roger Sloan 74 76 +8 all missed the cut.
Bryan Angus
Golf is a fickle game isn't it. Last week Nick Taylor outplayed Phil Mickelson to win at Pebble Beach, this week they both missed the cut, Taylor by a shot with rounds of 71 73.
Today it's Adam Hadwin's (71 71) turn in the spotlight as he is paired with Tiger (69 73) for the first time, and Jordan Spieth (72 70). All three are well back at E, T45.
Adam admits that having their first child back in January has changed their normal routine, and in fact his perspective. Golf is important but is no longer the be all and end all.. welcome to parenthood Adam !
They are 9 shots off the lead held by steady Matt Kuchar (64 69 -9) who is atop a very crowded leaderboard, birdies are at a premium at Riviera this week.
There are 19 players within 5 shots including Rory (68 67 -7), Adam Scott (72 64 -6), Jon Rahm (68 70 -4), defending champion JB Holmes (69 69 -4), Dustin Johnson (72,66 -4), so tons of firepower for what should be a tight race to the finish come Sunday in L.A. There is not much rough at Riviera which is keeping the field bunched.
Other Canadians: Nick Taylor 71 73 +2, Corey Connors 70 75 +4 and Roger Sloan 74 76 +8 all missed the cut.
Bryan Angus
Thursday, February 13, 2020
Kuhar leads Genesis Invitational...Taylor one of four Canadians..Tiger (69), Rory (68).. live leaderboard
PGA Tour Genesis Invitational leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/genesis-invitational/leaderboard.html
" Riviera has never been in better shape, and the weather is perfect"
Those words from first round leader at this Genesis Invitational Matt Kuchar as part of the reason for his -7 64 which included two 30 footers that don't normally drop in.
Tiger (-2 69) is hosting so Rory (-3 68), Rahm (-1 70) etal have shown up much to the pleasure of this new CBS golf coverage team. Jason Day continuing his good form is at (-3 68). World #2 Brooks Koepka opened with -2 69.
Nick Taylor (E 71) joins 3 other Canucks, Roger Sloan (+3 74), Corey Connors (-1 70) and Adam Hadwin (E 71)
Tiger opened with an eagle 3, just to set the table and added 2 birdies to go out in 31 but wasted a good start with 2 bogey's no birdies on the back nine 38, so is 5 shots off the lead and is out in the early wave in round 2.
Follow the live scoring on my live leaderboard above
Bryan Angus
" Riviera has never been in better shape, and the weather is perfect"
Those words from first round leader at this Genesis Invitational Matt Kuchar as part of the reason for his -7 64 which included two 30 footers that don't normally drop in.
Tiger (-2 69) is hosting so Rory (-3 68), Rahm (-1 70) etal have shown up much to the pleasure of this new CBS golf coverage team. Jason Day continuing his good form is at (-3 68). World #2 Brooks Koepka opened with -2 69.
Nick Taylor (E 71) joins 3 other Canucks, Roger Sloan (+3 74), Corey Connors (-1 70) and Adam Hadwin (E 71)
Tiger opened with an eagle 3, just to set the table and added 2 birdies to go out in 31 but wasted a good start with 2 bogey's no birdies on the back nine 38, so is 5 shots off the lead and is out in the early wave in round 2.
Follow the live scoring on my live leaderboard above
Bryan Angus
Monday, February 10, 2020
Nick Taylor hit the jackpot with his win at AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am... final leaderboard
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/at-t-pebble-beach-pro-am/leaderboard.html
Nick Taylor wrote another chapter in the book of Canadian golf History with his superb 4 shot win at one of golf's iconic tournaments, against a strong field, in a head to head match up with arguably one of it's most entertaining stars in Phil Mickelson.
Here are some thoughts/facts:
* I mentioned earlier that his recovery from two early bogey's on the tough back 9, for a 69 at Spyglass on Saturday was a turning point. Spyglass is by far the toughest of the 3 venues.
* wire to wire winners are rare, he opened with an eagle on Thursday to get off on the right foot.
* his mellow low key post round interview has drawn criticism, but that demeanor was his strongest ally all week.
* this week was the first time most Canadians have seen him play because he is rarely on TV.
* his stats tell the story T1 eagles(3) T3 birdies (21) 2nd in putting, T3 GIR.
* from 229 to 101 official world rankings and 79 to 13th in Fed Ex Cup
* $1.4m USA dollars
* Invite to Masters and PGA Championship
* 2 years fully exempt.
* favourite to represent Canada at Olympics in Japan
* strong credit for nomination into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame
* will play at Riviera (Genesis Invitational) with Adam Hadwin and Roger Sloan this week
* huge pay back to sponsors including TaylorMade (plays all TaylorMade clubs and ball) and RBC.
* mental validation that he can win, especially under these circumstances have filled him with all important confidence and have made all his 5 years of the PGA Tour's daily grind without much to show... all worth while !
Bryan Angus
Nick Taylor wrote another chapter in the book of Canadian golf History with his superb 4 shot win at one of golf's iconic tournaments, against a strong field, in a head to head match up with arguably one of it's most entertaining stars in Phil Mickelson.
Here are some thoughts/facts:
* I mentioned earlier that his recovery from two early bogey's on the tough back 9, for a 69 at Spyglass on Saturday was a turning point. Spyglass is by far the toughest of the 3 venues.
* wire to wire winners are rare, he opened with an eagle on Thursday to get off on the right foot.
* his mellow low key post round interview has drawn criticism, but that demeanor was his strongest ally all week.
* this week was the first time most Canadians have seen him play because he is rarely on TV.
* his stats tell the story T1 eagles(3) T3 birdies (21) 2nd in putting, T3 GIR.
* from 229 to 101 official world rankings and 79 to 13th in Fed Ex Cup
* $1.4m USA dollars
* Invite to Masters and PGA Championship
* 2 years fully exempt.
* favourite to represent Canada at Olympics in Japan
* strong credit for nomination into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame
* will play at Riviera (Genesis Invitational) with Adam Hadwin and Roger Sloan this week
* huge pay back to sponsors including TaylorMade (plays all TaylorMade clubs and ball) and RBC.
* mental validation that he can win, especially under these circumstances have filled him with all important confidence and have made all his 5 years of the PGA Tour's daily grind without much to show... all worth while !
Bryan Angus
Sunday, February 9, 2020
Nick Taylor is already a winner this week at AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am...
PGA Tour AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/at-t-pebble-beach-pro-am/leaderboard.html
Graham DeLaet tweeted this morning " What a great walk today for Nick Taylor on one of the world's great courses, holding off Phil to win at Pebble Beach.. Let's Go!"
All of that is so true, and the baubles should it happen would be a life changer for Nick who hasn't won since 2014. More on that tomorrow, but the way he has played and conducted himself have made him a winner already this week!
Golf tournaments are tough to win, and never mind Phil and his recently found form a shot behind at -16, there is Jason Day at -14, even Matt Every and Kevin Streelman (who is leading the pro-am division with former football star Larry Fitzgerald) are at -11.
Nick's numbers tell his story this week 63 66 69 -17 for starters. He is driving it long, 298yds and hitting the fairways 78%. His GIR are 79% and strokes gained putting are 3.6% which is 2nd.
He's made 2 eagles, 16 birdies, 33 pars and just 3 bogey's.
Phil Mickelson missed the cut 3 weeks ago at the Farmers Insurance and skipped the Waste Management for a huge appearance fee to play in Saudi Arabia where he found his form away from the glare of the PGA cameras, and ended up 3rd, before flying back home.
Yesterday he only hit 9 GIR but as is well documented he holed out at 13 and chipped in at 14. but he also missed several from inside 10 feet. He was at his scrambling best, but it's not often you get away with being that wild, so we'll see what today brings from Lefty.
For sure he is a God send to CBS, the crowds adore him and he's delighted as he said in Saudi Arabia to be back in contention after so much poor form.
Nick has 6 years on tour under his belt now, and shot 66 on Pebble on Friday. That would be good enough to win it today !!
Weather: It's 9*c this morning headed for 17* and the wind which will be howling tomorrow is at 16-20kph NE today.
Bryan Angus
Graham DeLaet tweeted this morning " What a great walk today for Nick Taylor on one of the world's great courses, holding off Phil to win at Pebble Beach.. Let's Go!"
All of that is so true, and the baubles should it happen would be a life changer for Nick who hasn't won since 2014. More on that tomorrow, but the way he has played and conducted himself have made him a winner already this week!
Golf tournaments are tough to win, and never mind Phil and his recently found form a shot behind at -16, there is Jason Day at -14, even Matt Every and Kevin Streelman (who is leading the pro-am division with former football star Larry Fitzgerald) are at -11.
Nick's numbers tell his story this week 63 66 69 -17 for starters. He is driving it long, 298yds and hitting the fairways 78%. His GIR are 79% and strokes gained putting are 3.6% which is 2nd.
He's made 2 eagles, 16 birdies, 33 pars and just 3 bogey's.
Phil Mickelson missed the cut 3 weeks ago at the Farmers Insurance and skipped the Waste Management for a huge appearance fee to play in Saudi Arabia where he found his form away from the glare of the PGA cameras, and ended up 3rd, before flying back home.
Yesterday he only hit 9 GIR but as is well documented he holed out at 13 and chipped in at 14. but he also missed several from inside 10 feet. He was at his scrambling best, but it's not often you get away with being that wild, so we'll see what today brings from Lefty.
For sure he is a God send to CBS, the crowds adore him and he's delighted as he said in Saudi Arabia to be back in contention after so much poor form.
Nick has 6 years on tour under his belt now, and shot 66 on Pebble on Friday. That would be good enough to win it today !!
Weather: It's 9*c this morning headed for 17* and the wind which will be howling tomorrow is at 16-20kph NE today.
Bryan Angus
Alena Sharp earns a top 10 at ISPS Handa Vic Open
LPGA ISPS Handa Vic Open final scoreboard https://www.lpga.com/tournaments/isps-handa-vic-open/results
All in all it was a good week for Alena Sharp down under, in contention all week with 68 69 70, sitting solo 3rd going into the final round.
With the wind howling and bogey actually a good score at the Handa Vic Open. the leaders Ayean Cho and Madelene Sagstrom both shot 81. Alena fought hard but had 5 bogey's for 41 on her front nine. She birdied 10 and came home in 36 for a +5 77 -5 total on the week T9.
The winning score over 4 days was only -8 as Korean Hee Young Park won a 3 way playoff with birdie on the 4th hole.
On the men's side Aussie Min Woo Lee won for the first time, on a course his sister Minjee won in 2018. She was waiting for him at the 18th.
I thoroughly enjoyed the format this week with men and women competing on the same course. The wind, the wildlife, the links with spectators and their dogs walking the fairways was a refreshing change to the usual big corporate game.
Bryan Angus
All in all it was a good week for Alena Sharp down under, in contention all week with 68 69 70, sitting solo 3rd going into the final round.
With the wind howling and bogey actually a good score at the Handa Vic Open. the leaders Ayean Cho and Madelene Sagstrom both shot 81. Alena fought hard but had 5 bogey's for 41 on her front nine. She birdied 10 and came home in 36 for a +5 77 -5 total on the week T9.
The winning score over 4 days was only -8 as Korean Hee Young Park won a 3 way playoff with birdie on the 4th hole.
On the men's side Aussie Min Woo Lee won for the first time, on a course his sister Minjee won in 2018. She was waiting for him at the 18th.
I thoroughly enjoyed the format this week with men and women competing on the same course. The wind, the wildlife, the links with spectators and their dogs walking the fairways was a refreshing change to the usual big corporate game.
Bryan Angus
Saturday, February 8, 2020
Great day in Canadian Golf.. Taylor leads Pebble Beach, Alena Sharp, Taylor Pendrith in contention.. live scoring
As this frigid snowy February weekend dawns in the GTA, 3 Canadians are excelling in much warmer climes around the world.
Here are their stories with live scoreboards for you to follow.
PGA Tour AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/at-t-pebble-beach-pro-am/leaderboard.html
Let's start in southern California on the spectacular Monterey Peninsula where the weather has co-operated this week at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and Nick Taylor has the lead at -14. 64 at Monterey GC and 66 at Pebble Beach. Today the wind is up a little and he is at Spyglass GC, the toughest of the 3, and I think this will be his hardest challenge this week as he pursues his 1st win in 6 years.
He has just one bogey in 36 holes, all parts of his game are working including the all important putter. He birdied 4 of the last 5 at PB yesterday and made a few solid par savers in the middle of his round.
He starts on the more difficult back nine.
Chasing pack : Phil Mickelson 68 64 -11 (PB today) Jason Day 67 64 -12 (SH today) Chris Baker 69 64 -10 (SH today), Charl Schwartzel 67 66 -10 (SH today) Dustin JJohnson 69 65 -9 (PB today)
Canadians: Michael Gligic T89 E, Adam Hadwin T89 E, Mac Hughes T112 +2, David Hearn T37 +5....The cut is projected at -2.
LPGA Tour ISPS Handa Vic Open leaderboard https://www.lpga.com/leaderboard
Alena Sharp is looking for her first ever win after 15 years on the LPGA Tour and she is in a great spot to make it tomorrow at this windy ISPS Handa Vic Open. With rounds of 68 69 70 -10 she is 3rd, just 2 shot off the lead by Ayean Cho at -12.
In a post round interview she said lessons with her Australian coach in mid January concentrated on keeping the ball flight down in this wind which she did and combined with solid putting and encouraging advice from her mental coach she seems to be ready to compete tomorrow. She and her partner/caddy are staying with friends which as kept things light and happy off the course.
The final cut yesterday has left just 35 players for the last round. On the men's side Aaron Cockerill who opened so well with 66 has missed the final cut after a 77 yesterday.
If you are watching you'll see the women and men playing the same course spectators walk the fairways with the players, and their dogs if they want.
Korn Ferry Tour Bogota Championship leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/korn-ferry-tour/leaderboard.html
With rounds of 66 66 -9 Taylor Pendrith is T6 just 3 shots off the lead at this Bogota Championship.
The leader is Camilo Villegas 64 65 -12, along with American John Vandarlaan. You'll remember the young Colombian who made the spiderman pose famous for reading his putts. Injuries have sidelined his career.
Bryan Angus
Here are their stories with live scoreboards for you to follow.
PGA Tour AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/competition/2020/at-t-pebble-beach-pro-am/leaderboard.html
Let's start in southern California on the spectacular Monterey Peninsula where the weather has co-operated this week at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and Nick Taylor has the lead at -14. 64 at Monterey GC and 66 at Pebble Beach. Today the wind is up a little and he is at Spyglass GC, the toughest of the 3, and I think this will be his hardest challenge this week as he pursues his 1st win in 6 years.
He has just one bogey in 36 holes, all parts of his game are working including the all important putter. He birdied 4 of the last 5 at PB yesterday and made a few solid par savers in the middle of his round.
He starts on the more difficult back nine.
Chasing pack : Phil Mickelson 68 64 -11 (PB today) Jason Day 67 64 -12 (SH today) Chris Baker 69 64 -10 (SH today), Charl Schwartzel 67 66 -10 (SH today) Dustin JJohnson 69 65 -9 (PB today)
Canadians: Michael Gligic T89 E, Adam Hadwin T89 E, Mac Hughes T112 +2, David Hearn T37 +5....The cut is projected at -2.
LPGA Tour ISPS Handa Vic Open leaderboard https://www.lpga.com/leaderboard
Alena Sharp is looking for her first ever win after 15 years on the LPGA Tour and she is in a great spot to make it tomorrow at this windy ISPS Handa Vic Open. With rounds of 68 69 70 -10 she is 3rd, just 2 shot off the lead by Ayean Cho at -12.
In a post round interview she said lessons with her Australian coach in mid January concentrated on keeping the ball flight down in this wind which she did and combined with solid putting and encouraging advice from her mental coach she seems to be ready to compete tomorrow. She and her partner/caddy are staying with friends which as kept things light and happy off the course.
The final cut yesterday has left just 35 players for the last round. On the men's side Aaron Cockerill who opened so well with 66 has missed the final cut after a 77 yesterday.
If you are watching you'll see the women and men playing the same course spectators walk the fairways with the players, and their dogs if they want.
Korn Ferry Tour Bogota Championship leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/korn-ferry-tour/leaderboard.html
With rounds of 66 66 -9 Taylor Pendrith is T6 just 3 shots off the lead at this Bogota Championship.
The leader is Camilo Villegas 64 65 -12, along with American John Vandarlaan. You'll remember the young Colombian who made the spiderman pose famous for reading his putts. Injuries have sidelined his career.
Bryan Angus
Friday, February 7, 2020
Alena Sharp T11 at ISPS Handa Vic Open
LPGA/LET ISPS Handa Vic Open leaderboard https://www.lpga.com/leaderboard
European Tour ISPS Handa Vic Open leaderboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/isps-handa-vic-open-2020/leaderboard?round=3
Alena Sharp has posted 68 69 -8 to T11 after two rounds of the ISPS Handa Vic Open and she trails in form Swede, Madelene Sagstrom 65 67 -13.
On the men's side Aaron Cockerill 66 71 has slipped T29 -7. The leader at -14 is Frenchman Robin Sciot-Siegrist 66,64.
Bryan Angus
European Tour ISPS Handa Vic Open leaderboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/isps-handa-vic-open-2020/leaderboard?round=3
Alena Sharp has posted 68 69 -8 to T11 after two rounds of the ISPS Handa Vic Open and she trails in form Swede, Madelene Sagstrom 65 67 -13.
On the men's side Aaron Cockerill 66 71 has slipped T29 -7. The leader at -14 is Frenchman Robin Sciot-Siegrist 66,64.
Bryan Angus
Thursday, February 6, 2020
Nick Taylor -8 63 leads AT&T Pebble Beach Pro- Am
Pebble Beach Pro Am leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/leaderboard.html
Nick Taylor began with an eagle 3 on his opening hole, added two birdies going out in 33, then had 4 more to come home in 30 for a -8 63 on the Monterey Peninsula course to take a two shot lead after round one of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am.
The rest of the Canadian contingent have some catching up to do: Michael Gligic E 72 on Spyglass, Adam Hadwin +2 74 Spyglass, Mac Hughes +2 74 Pebble Beach and David Hearn +3 75 Spyglass.
Defending champion Phil Mickelson -4 68 on Spyglass continuing his fine play where he T3 at the Saudi International.
Bryan Angus
Nick Taylor began with an eagle 3 on his opening hole, added two birdies going out in 33, then had 4 more to come home in 30 for a -8 63 on the Monterey Peninsula course to take a two shot lead after round one of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am.
The rest of the Canadian contingent have some catching up to do: Michael Gligic E 72 on Spyglass, Adam Hadwin +2 74 Spyglass, Mac Hughes +2 74 Pebble Beach and David Hearn +3 75 Spyglass.
Defending champion Phil Mickelson -4 68 on Spyglass continuing his fine play where he T3 at the Saudi International.
Bryan Angus
Cockerill, Sharp in contention at ISPS Handa Vic Open.. live scoring
European Tour ISPS Handa Vic Open, men's leaderboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/isps-handa-vic-open-2020/leaderboard?round=2
LET/ LPGA Tours ISPS Handa Vic Open women's leaderboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/isps-handa-vic-open-2020/leaderboard?round=2
This ISPS Handa Vic Open is the event that the men and women play on the same two courses (Beach Course and Creek course) for the same prize money, at the same time in Victoria, Australia..
There will be cuts made on Friday, and they wrap up the weekend on the Beach course.
There are 2 Canadians, Aaron Cockerill with the men and Alena Sharp with the women. He was T6 with -6 66 in his first round, 3 shots off the lead. She was -5 68 T15, also 3 shots off the lead.
Follow round 2 on my live scoring links above, remember they are 16 hours ahead of EST..
Bryan Angus
LET/ LPGA Tours ISPS Handa Vic Open women's leaderboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/isps-handa-vic-open-2020/leaderboard?round=2
This ISPS Handa Vic Open is the event that the men and women play on the same two courses (Beach Course and Creek course) for the same prize money, at the same time in Victoria, Australia..
There will be cuts made on Friday, and they wrap up the weekend on the Beach course.
There are 2 Canadians, Aaron Cockerill with the men and Alena Sharp with the women. He was T6 with -6 66 in his first round, 3 shots off the lead. She was -5 68 T15, also 3 shots off the lead.
Follow round 2 on my live scoring links above, remember they are 16 hours ahead of EST..
Bryan Angus
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
5 Canadians this week at AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.. tee times
Pebble Beach Pro-Am tee times https://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/at-t-pebble-beach-pro-am/tee-times.html
Here are the tee times for this week's AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and there are 5 Canadians in the field. Micheal Gligic, Adam Hadwin, Nick Taylor, David Hearn and Mac Hughes will compete on some of the real high rent areas of the USA along the Monterey Peninsula.
Remember they play on 3 courses Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill and Monterey GC with their partners who pay $5000 for the privilege.
It all raps up on Pebble Beach who just upped their green fees to $580.00 per round, on Sunday.
For tee times, courses and partners click on my link above. Phil Mickelson defends his title. He along with Dustin Johnson, who plays with his father in law Wayne Gretzky, and Graeme McDowell have made the long flight back from Saudi Arabia. The Irishman's trip made even longer by stopping at home in Orlando for a couple of days to see his family.
Bryan Angus
Here are the tee times for this week's AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and there are 5 Canadians in the field. Micheal Gligic, Adam Hadwin, Nick Taylor, David Hearn and Mac Hughes will compete on some of the real high rent areas of the USA along the Monterey Peninsula.
Remember they play on 3 courses Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill and Monterey GC with their partners who pay $5000 for the privilege.
It all raps up on Pebble Beach who just upped their green fees to $580.00 per round, on Sunday.
For tee times, courses and partners click on my link above. Phil Mickelson defends his title. He along with Dustin Johnson, who plays with his father in law Wayne Gretzky, and Graeme McDowell have made the long flight back from Saudi Arabia. The Irishman's trip made even longer by stopping at home in Orlando for a couple of days to see his family.
Bryan Angus
Monday, February 3, 2020
Monday morning shagbag...Simpson finally wins in Phoenix, Golf Summit in Saudi Arabia
Waste Management Phoenix Open final leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/leaderboard.html
Another wildly successful, raucous, drunken, hot, sun soaked week in the Arizona desert at the Waste Management Phoenix Open finished in a playoff with Webb Simpson finally winning after making a second birdie on the 18th hole in a playoff over Tony Finau.
There are horses for courses and TPC Scottsdale is just that for Simpson, he had lost a playoff to Hideki Matsuyama in 2017, and had three other top-10 finishes.
It was Simpson’s sixth win, and first since THE PLAYERS Championship in 2018. It also came after four runner-up finishes since last summer. He moved to second in the FedExCup.
Finau is a new resident of Scottsdale and after missing his last 4 cuts he will be pleased with his return to form this week. Justin Thomas (65), Bubba Watson (66) and Nate Lashley (68) tied for third, three back.
Canadians : Adam Hadwin T40 69 67 72 70 -6, Corey Connors T45 71 69 71 68 -5, Nick Taylor T49 70 70 71 70 -3.
The tour moves California for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am this week.
European Tour News : https://www.golfsaudisummit.com/
After Graeme McDowell returned to the winner circle this weekend at the Saudi International, movers and shakers from around the world have been assembled for three days by King Abdullah for the new "Global Golf Business Event."
The objective: To debate the progressive opportunities in golf.
Key note speakers: There are 20 spread over 2 days including Greg Norman, Gary Player, David Leadbetter, Alex Armas (CEO Ladies European Tour), Keith Pelley (CEO European Tour)
The topics are wide and varied amongst them a proposal for a new super tour involving the top 48 players in the world.
I will report here when news is posted. Click on my link above for more details..
Bryan Angus
Another wildly successful, raucous, drunken, hot, sun soaked week in the Arizona desert at the Waste Management Phoenix Open finished in a playoff with Webb Simpson finally winning after making a second birdie on the 18th hole in a playoff over Tony Finau.
There are horses for courses and TPC Scottsdale is just that for Simpson, he had lost a playoff to Hideki Matsuyama in 2017, and had three other top-10 finishes.
It was Simpson’s sixth win, and first since THE PLAYERS Championship in 2018. It also came after four runner-up finishes since last summer. He moved to second in the FedExCup.
Finau is a new resident of Scottsdale and after missing his last 4 cuts he will be pleased with his return to form this week. Justin Thomas (65), Bubba Watson (66) and Nate Lashley (68) tied for third, three back.
Canadians : Adam Hadwin T40 69 67 72 70 -6, Corey Connors T45 71 69 71 68 -5, Nick Taylor T49 70 70 71 70 -3.
The tour moves California for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am this week.
European Tour News : https://www.golfsaudisummit.com/
After Graeme McDowell returned to the winner circle this weekend at the Saudi International, movers and shakers from around the world have been assembled for three days by King Abdullah for the new "Global Golf Business Event."
The objective: To debate the progressive opportunities in golf.
Key note speakers: There are 20 spread over 2 days including Greg Norman, Gary Player, David Leadbetter, Alex Armas (CEO Ladies European Tour), Keith Pelley (CEO European Tour)
The topics are wide and varied amongst them a proposal for a new super tour involving the top 48 players in the world.
I will report here when news is posted. Click on my link above for more details..
Bryan Angus
Sunday, February 2, 2020
The Waste Management Open doesn't need big stars to be entertaining..Finau leads Sunday scoreboard
Waste Management Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/leaderboard.html
Big hitting Tony Finau has missed his last 4 cuts, but has found his game this week, and with a 62 yesterday he leads this Waste Management Open by a shot at -16, with Webb Simpson who has contended both here and all year so far in 2nd with a 64, -15.
"If I want to accomplish the things I feel like I can accomplish I have to put those types of expectations on myself, said Finau when asked about winning after a 4 year drought. I look forward to Sunday, my game's in a good place"
Hudson Swafford (66) and JB Holmes (70) are at -14, with Xander Schaufelle (66), Adam Long (66) and Scott Piercy (68) all at -13.
Jordan Spieth who has disappeared from the golf spotlight missed the cut and hasn't won in 57 starts since 2017. Ever the optimist he says he is on the rebound.
The 3 Canadians playing the weekend are not in contention. Adam Hadwin T40,72,-5..Nick Taylor T56 (71 -2).. Corey Connors T56 (71 -2)
Anheiser Busch expects to sell 2 million beers over the week in the glorious sunshine of Phoenix making Waste Management the perfect sponsor, with line ups at the porta loos starting early and staying late, sorely testing the bladders surrounding the famous par 3 16th.
Golf purists my raise an eyebrow at the drunken antics of the many university students who pack that stadium, but I think over the week it's mainly fun, certainly entertaining, including the placing the flag ritual before each round when they parade the flag around the green to see where the crowd wants it to be placed before play begins. For the young women in skimpy outfits and appreciative young men, it's golf's version of Spring Break!
Its also a great deal for all you couch potatoes with the SuperBowl following right into Sunday night.
Best get your exercise in early !!
Bryan Angus
Big hitting Tony Finau has missed his last 4 cuts, but has found his game this week, and with a 62 yesterday he leads this Waste Management Open by a shot at -16, with Webb Simpson who has contended both here and all year so far in 2nd with a 64, -15.
"If I want to accomplish the things I feel like I can accomplish I have to put those types of expectations on myself, said Finau when asked about winning after a 4 year drought. I look forward to Sunday, my game's in a good place"
Hudson Swafford (66) and JB Holmes (70) are at -14, with Xander Schaufelle (66), Adam Long (66) and Scott Piercy (68) all at -13.
Jordan Spieth who has disappeared from the golf spotlight missed the cut and hasn't won in 57 starts since 2017. Ever the optimist he says he is on the rebound.
The 3 Canadians playing the weekend are not in contention. Adam Hadwin T40,72,-5..Nick Taylor T56 (71 -2).. Corey Connors T56 (71 -2)
Anheiser Busch expects to sell 2 million beers over the week in the glorious sunshine of Phoenix making Waste Management the perfect sponsor, with line ups at the porta loos starting early and staying late, sorely testing the bladders surrounding the famous par 3 16th.
Golf purists my raise an eyebrow at the drunken antics of the many university students who pack that stadium, but I think over the week it's mainly fun, certainly entertaining, including the placing the flag ritual before each round when they parade the flag around the green to see where the crowd wants it to be placed before play begins. For the young women in skimpy outfits and appreciative young men, it's golf's version of Spring Break!
Its also a great deal for all you couch potatoes with the SuperBowl following right into Sunday night.
Best get your exercise in early !!
Bryan Angus
.
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Graeme McDowell returns to winners circle at Saudi International
European Tour Saudi International final scoreboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/saudi-international-powered-by-softbank-investment-advisers-2020/leaderboard
Graeme McDowell ended his 2,037 day wait for a European Tour title with a gutsy, grinding victory at the 2020 Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers.
Graeme McDowell ended his 2,037 day wait for a European Tour title with a gutsy, grinding victory at the 2020 Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers.
On a windy final day at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club, the 40-year-old used all his experience to card a closing 70 and finish at 12 under, two shots clear of defending champion Dustin Johnson.
Raised in Northern Ireland and with a Major victory at Pebble Beach Golf Links in the 2010 U.S. Open Championship, McDowell is a master of playing in the wind, and he utilised all his guile to come home in 34 as many of his rivals faltered.
Johnson eagled the last in a 67 to finish a shot ahead of fellow American Phil Mickelson, Malaysia's Gavin Green and Belgian Thomas Pieters.
Make no mistake this was a great investment week for the sponsors with McDowell's emotional win, and Johnson, Mickelson and Koepka all in the mix all week, bringing the world's attention to them and golf in Saudi Arabia. Sadly however, you noticed how few spectators showed up, indicative how this was really a showcase for the ruling family, not for his nation who don't play golf.
McDowell's 11th European Tour victory and first since making a successful defence at the 2014 Open de France could take him back into the top 50 on the Official World Golf Ranking and makes him a European Tour winner in three different decades.
The victory also means his 16 professional wins have come in 13 different countries and he is determined to have another prolonged spell at the top of the game after claiming his first triumph since turning 40.
"It's special," he said. "I've been working hard the last year and a half. I want to be back up there one more time just to be able to play against these guys. The game of golf is in such great shape, there are so many great players in the world, it's so exciting to be a top player in the world and I want to be back up there again.I have young kids at home and I wanted them to see me play at the top with these guys, not just rely on pulling out the YouTube's"
Bryan Angus
(europeantour.com)
Bryan Angus
(europeantour.com)
Saturday, February 1, 2020
Graeme McDowell leads into final round at Saudi International
European Tour Saudi International leaderboard https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/saudi-international-powered-by-softbank-investment-advisers-2020/leaderboard
Graeme McDowell will be reunited with Ryder Cup playing partner Victor Dubuisson when he takes a one shot lead into the final round of the 2020 Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers.
Graeme McDowell will be reunited with Ryder Cup playing partner Victor Dubuisson when he takes a one shot lead into the final round of the 2020 Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers.
Captain Paul McGinley asked Major Champion McDowell to mentor rookie Dubuisson for the 2014 contest at Gleneagles and the duo went on to take two points from two in the foursomes as Europe romped to a third consecutive victory.
They will be together on the first tee again on day four at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club, after McDowell carded a 66 to get to -12, one shot clear of Dubuisson who fired a bogey free 65.
Malaysia's Gavin Green was at -9, two shots ahead of defending champion Dustin Johnson, Italy's Renato Paratore and Frenchman Victor Perez.
It is nearly six years since McDowell claimed the latest of his ten European Tour wins and he has recorded just eight top tens since winning a second Open de France title in 2014.
He has had two worldwide victories in that time, however, including one last season, and showed all the class that helped him win the 2010 U.S. Open Championship as he led after 54 holes for the tenth time in his European Tour career - with five wins from that position.
"We shared a car up to the course this morning and I was chatting with him and I always look out for him, great experiences with him in 2014 at Gleneagles," McDowell said of Dubuisson.
"He's such a great guy, he hasn't had the best form the last few years and I'm really, really happy to see him at the top of the leaderboard and looking forward to being with him tomorrow. It's going to be tough to try and play tough against him but we're both competitors and we'll go out there and try and do our job.
I always tell my kids we live in a nice house because daddy can putt, that's about the heart of it, really. The putter's been a little ice cold the last sort of two rounds but I got it heated back up on the back nine today and I'm going to have to putt well to have a chance tomorrow."
Dubuisson got as high as 15th on the Official World Golf Ranking in 2015 but is currently 478th, his lowest position since 2011. He missed most of last year with a wrist injury, and is notorious for losing his temper with himself. He has changed back to the Taylormade clubs he used 2 years ago.
Adam Hadwin T17 at Waste Management Open
PGA Tour Waste Management Open leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/leaderboard.html
Big hitting Kentuckian JB Holmes took 4 months off golf all together but in his 3rd start this year any rust he may have acquired is well and truly gone with rounds of 64, 65 he leads this boisterous Waste Management Open by a shot at -13 over Wyndham Clark 61 69 -12.
Holmes has won 5 times including 2006, 2008 at TPC Scottsdale.
Canadians: Adam Hadwin 69,67 -6 T17, Nick Taylor T49 70 70 -2, Corey Connors 71 69 -2. Roger Sloan and Mac Hughes both missed the cut.
Remember they will all be off early on Sunday morning in Phoenix to clear the TV decks for the Super Bowl.
Click on link above for live scoring..
Bryan Angus
Big hitting Kentuckian JB Holmes took 4 months off golf all together but in his 3rd start this year any rust he may have acquired is well and truly gone with rounds of 64, 65 he leads this boisterous Waste Management Open by a shot at -13 over Wyndham Clark 61 69 -12.
Holmes has won 5 times including 2006, 2008 at TPC Scottsdale.
Canadians: Adam Hadwin 69,67 -6 T17, Nick Taylor T49 70 70 -2, Corey Connors 71 69 -2. Roger Sloan and Mac Hughes both missed the cut.
Remember they will all be off early on Sunday morning in Phoenix to clear the TV decks for the Super Bowl.
Click on link above for live scoring..
Bryan Angus
Stephen Ames finishes 2nd at Morocco Champions
Morocco Champions leaderboard https://www.pgatour.com/champions/leaderboard.html
Stephen Ames is enjoying his stay in Marrakesh, Morocco with his wife Kelly, visiting the market, taking in the sights, smells and sounds, and oh yes, playing great golf.
A matching course record 63 had him leading by 4 after the first PGA Champions event in Africa, then 69 on Friday saw him 3 shots clear on the Samanah Golf Club at -12.
Now 55 he won the season opening Mitsubishi Electric Championship in 2017 for his only Senior tour win, he had 4 on the PGA Tour. He has become well established and with the retirement of Rod Spittle is the lone Canadian on tour. He has a new coach, a re-vamped swing and an altered grip all of which are working well.
With 2 early bogeys he lost his 3 shot lead to a surging Brett Quigley but battled hard with offsetting birdies on the front nine, and others at the 11th and 12th. Bogey's at 14 and 15 had his shoulders slumping, but birdies at 16 and 17 along with Quigley's first bogey of the day and Stephen came down the 18th just a shot behind at -14.
His approach hit the green but rolled down off the back, and he darned near holed his pitch for birdie. He holed an 8 footer for par, leaving Quigley a testy 4 footer for the win, which he made.
Quigley had no status, and never won on the PGA Tour but had a fantastic round to give himself 2 years with full privileges on the PGA Tour Champions.
There are around 100 courses in Morocco and the European Tour has been playing here for a decade. This event has a 5 year deal and organizers have spoiled the players and their families with lavish accommodations, parties along with sightseeing trips. all of which they hope will boost their country as a go to destination for international golf holidays.
Bryan Angus
Stephen Ames is enjoying his stay in Marrakesh, Morocco with his wife Kelly, visiting the market, taking in the sights, smells and sounds, and oh yes, playing great golf.
A matching course record 63 had him leading by 4 after the first PGA Champions event in Africa, then 69 on Friday saw him 3 shots clear on the Samanah Golf Club at -12.
Now 55 he won the season opening Mitsubishi Electric Championship in 2017 for his only Senior tour win, he had 4 on the PGA Tour. He has become well established and with the retirement of Rod Spittle is the lone Canadian on tour. He has a new coach, a re-vamped swing and an altered grip all of which are working well.
With 2 early bogeys he lost his 3 shot lead to a surging Brett Quigley but battled hard with offsetting birdies on the front nine, and others at the 11th and 12th. Bogey's at 14 and 15 had his shoulders slumping, but birdies at 16 and 17 along with Quigley's first bogey of the day and Stephen came down the 18th just a shot behind at -14.
His approach hit the green but rolled down off the back, and he darned near holed his pitch for birdie. He holed an 8 footer for par, leaving Quigley a testy 4 footer for the win, which he made.
Quigley had no status, and never won on the PGA Tour but had a fantastic round to give himself 2 years with full privileges on the PGA Tour Champions.
There are around 100 courses in Morocco and the European Tour has been playing here for a decade. This event has a 5 year deal and organizers have spoiled the players and their families with lavish accommodations, parties along with sightseeing trips. all of which they hope will boost their country as a go to destination for international golf holidays.
Bryan Angus
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