How did Sahith Theegala fare in his first Fall Season event?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sahith Theegala struggles with an even-par 70 on Day 1.
- Doug Ghim ties the course record with a remarkable 10-under 60.
- Calm conditions on the Seaside course favor low scoring.
- Johnny Keefer aims for a big week to secure a spot at the Masters.
- Injuries can impact performance but resilience is key.
St. Simons Island, Nov 21 (NationPress) Sahith Theegala faced a challenging start at the RSM Classic, marking the conclusion of the Fall Season on the PGA Tour. After spending a significant portion of the year sidelined due to an injury, Theegala carded an even-par 70, placing him tied for 125th after the opening round at the Plantation Course on Sea Island.
Commencing his round on the tenth hole, Theegala managed to secure just one birdie on the seventh, which was his 16th hole, but unfortunately relinquished that advantage with a bogey on the ninth, concluding his day.
Doug Ghim narrowly missed a putt that could have given him a round of 59 on a day ideal for scoring low. He finished with a 10-under 60, tying the course record on the Seaside Course at Sea Island.
Davis Thompson, the son of the tournament director Todd Thompson, along with Rico Hoey, also posted impressive scores of 10 under, each shooting a 62 at the Plantation Course during the initial rounds. Andrew Putnam was close to a sub-60 round but settled for a 9-under 61 after two pars on the final holes on the Seaside course.
Playing under typically challenging conditions, the Seaside course is known for its wind, but on this day, calm and warm weather created perfect conditions for low scores.
Ghim, currently ranked No. 125, recognized the importance of this event for his ranking aspirations. He is uncertain about the finish he requires to break into the top 100, and admits he is hesitant to find out.
Johnny Keefer, who secured his card by leading the Korn Ferry Tour this year, had a solid round with a 65, placing him at T-23. Currently ranked No. 50 in the world, he is looking for a strong performance to qualify for the Masters. He bounced back from a tough start, notching up seven birdies over his last ten holes.