Padraig Harrington keeps his Slam in sight
Padraig Harrington has joked that the “Paddy Slam” sounds more like a wrestling move than a golf accomplishment.
Whatever the case, it certainly sounds more impressive than a half Nelson.
And the good news for Harrington is that his personal Grand Slam remains within reach after shooting a three-under-par 69 in the opening round of the Masters.
Harrington was stuck at one under before birdies on Nos. 12 and 13.
“It was a day for scoring,” he said, “so there was a little bit of urgency out there. When you hear a lot of cheers, it makes you a little more anxious to be a part of it.”
Harrington has been the star of the show since Tiger Woods was lost to knee surgery. He won the British Open and PGA Championship last year, giving him three of the last six major titles.
--
Ross who?
Ross Fisher threatened to join the likes of Dennis Paulson and Mike Donald as obscure first-round Masters leaders.
Fisher, a 28-year-old from England who won the 2008 European Open, was four under through eight holes and five under through 16. But he bogeyed 17 and 18 for a 69.
“You dream of playing in the Masters,” he said. “To finally get the invitation and to feel like you belong is a wonderful achievement.”
--
Youth served
The Masters’ three teenagers acted their age, with none finishing under par.
Rory McIlroy made 14 pars in a round of 72. Ryo Ishikawa fired an up-and-down 73. And amateur Danny Lee closed with 74 after missing a reasonable birdie putt on 18.
--
Billy ball
Did this memo circulate in the locker room Thursday afternoon? It should have.
To: Billy Payne, Chairman, Augusta National Golf Club
From: Your critics
Regarding: The Tiger-proofing (and eagle-proofing) of the Masters
Dear Billy, You were right.
Sincerely, You Know Who
If you’ve been following the Masters, you know the debate: Did club officials go too far in adding trees, a second cut of rough and 400-plus yards? Or is the weather to blame for the lack of birdies and eagles over the last two weekends?
Payne held firm Tuesday that weather was to blame and Thursday’s low scores in flawless conditions made him look good.
--
Get our high school sports newsletter
Prep Rally is devoted to the SoCal high school sports experience, bringing you scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
