Olazabal Finds Game for a Day

The tee shots found the fairway, the approach shots nestled close to the hole, and the putts rolled smoothly.

For one day, at least, Jose Maria Olazabal was back on his game.

The two-time Masters champion shot a seven-under 65 Thursday to tie rookie Roger Tambellini for the lead after a blustery first round at the BellSouth Classic.

They were one shot ahead of Craig Bowden, and two in front of Tim Petrovic and PGA Championship winner Shaun Micheel.

In his first seven events this season, Olazabal missed three cuts and withdrew from the FBR Open. His best finish was a tie for 40th at Bay Hill, and he failed to qualify for the weekend at the Players Championship.

“It’s been a struggle,” Olazabal said. “I’ve been going through a tough spell. One day, I might have a good round, and then the following day, I can’t follow that with another round.

“It has been frustrating, but all I can do is keep on trying.”

So, unlike most of his competitors in next week’s Masters, Olazabal is focused solely on this tournament.

“At the moment, I’m trying to do the best I can this week,” he said. “I know that tomorrow is a different day. I have to start from scratch.”

Adam Scott, who hung on to win the Players title last week, is three shots back in a group that includes defending BellSouth champion Ben Crane. Phil Mickelson is one more behind after a 69.

“I struggled early on, but I didn’t drop any shots,” Scott said. “I started playing nicely on the back. I’m pretty happy with that score. Seven under is pretty deep out there.”