Rain Postpones Opening Round of Tournament of Champions

The opening round of the Infiniti Tournament of Champions at the La Costa Resort was postponed Thursday because of rain.

It was only the second time since the tournament was moved from Las Vegas to La Costa in 1969 that rain has been severe enough to wash out a round.

The final round was canceled in 1988, with the third-round leaders, Steve Pate, of the PGA Tour, and Dave Hill, of the senior tour, being declared the winners.

On Thursday, the creek that runs through the course was overflowing on many holes. On the 18th hole, there was a virtual lake in front of the green.

Tournament director Mike Crosthwaite said that 36 holes will be played today, weather permitting. First tee time is 7 a.m. The regular tour and senior players will start from the first and 10th tees.

As for the possibility of the tournament being extended, Crosthwaite said: “We would prefer not to go to Monday.”

The forecast for today is a 30% chance of morning showers with the storm dissipating. Another front is expected Saturday night and Sunday, however.

A tournament can be declared official if 36 holes are played.

Chi Chi Rodriguez, of the senior tour, looked out of his hotel window Thursday and said: “I don’t even think Moses would break par today.”