Errant Shot Sends Hale Irwin to the Hospital

Hale Irwin, the 1976 Los Angeles Open champion, was hit on the forehead by a golf ball Wednesday while playing in the pro-am that traditionally precedes the tournament at the Riviera Country Club.

Irwin was taken to Santa Monica Hospital, where stitches were taken in his forehead. He was scheduled to be released later in the evening.

According to an eyewitness, Irwin hit his second shot from the rough on the seventh fairway. Then, someone from the 15th tee yelled fore, and Irwin put his hands to his head to protect himself.

The ball from the 15th tee hit him between his hands and on his forehead. It is not known whether he will be able to play today. His tee time is 11:16 a.m.