First Round of HSBC Champions in the Books
November 5, 2009 by Jeff Greenwell
Filed under Golf
There may have been 70+ players teeing off in the first round of the HSBC Champions tournament, but the throngs of Chinese fans were really there to see only two players–Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. And even though neither of the superstars was at the top of the leaderboard, neither disappointed the fans. But the first day, at least, belonged to Nick Watney, who fired an 8-under 64, good for a two stroke lead over a group of three golfers, including Ireland’s Shane Lowry.
Tiger Woods checks the wind during the opening round of the HSBC Champions. (Image: Zuma Press)
Woods finds himself three strokes back after an opening round 67. American Anthony Kim and England’s Paul Casey posted scores of 67 as well.
Mickelson started hot, making the turn in 32, but couldn’t buy a birdie the rest of the way. He finished with a 3-under 69. Defending champ Sergio Garcia shot a miserable 3-over 75.
Play continues through the weekend at the Sheshan International Golf Club.
