The RSM Classic: Sahith Theegala had a rough opening day at the RSM Classic, the last Fall Season event on the PGA Tour. Theegala, who lost a good part of the year due to injury, shot an even par 70 and was way down in tied-125th place after the first day at the Plantation Course at Sea Island.Starting on the tenth in the event being played over two courses — at the Plantation Course and the Seaside course, the Indian-American had just one birdie on the seventh, which was his 16th hole, and gave that away with a bogey on the ninth, his final hole of the day.
Doug Ghim narrowly missed a putt for 59 on a calm day of low scoring. He settled for a share of the course record on the Seaside Course at Sea Island, posting a 10-under 60 at The RSM Classic.
Davis Thompson, the son of tournament director Todd Thompson, and Rico Hoey also were 10 under, each with a 62 at the Plantation Course used for the opening two rounds. Andrew Putnam was in sight of a sub-60 round until he closed with two pars for a 9-under 61 on the Seaside course.
Joining him at 9-under 61 was Andrew Novak, playing for the first time since the TOUR Championship in late August and the first time since becoming a father.
The Seaside typically is a stronger test because of the wind coming off the water. Except on this day, there was no wind and exceptionally warm weather, ideal for low scores.
Johnny Keefer (65) at T-23, who led the Korn Ferry Tour this year to secure his card, came into the week at No. 50 in the world ranking and could use a big week in a bid to get into the Masters. He overcame a rugged start with seven birdies on his last 10 holes for a 65 at Seaside.
Article Source: IANS