Stewart Cink and Charlie Wi Share First-Round Lead at U.S. Senior Open
Stewart Cink and Charlie Wi finished the opening round of the U.S. Senior Open tied for the lead after both carded impressive rounds of 3-under-par 67 at Scioto Country Club in Columbus, Ohio.
Cink recovered strongly after a challenging front nine, producing an outstanding back-nine performance to move into a share of the lead.
Cink Finishes Strong
The 53-year-old began his round with a 2-over-par 37 on the front nine but found his rhythm after the turn.
Cink recorded five birdies on the back nine, the most by any player during that stretch, to climb to the top of the leaderboard.
After the round, Cink said he was pleased with the way he recovered and felt he could have posted an even lower score after missing several birdie opportunities.
Chasing a Third Straight Senior Major
Cink has enjoyed an impressive season on the PGA Tour Champions, recording four victories in nine starts, including titles at the Senior PGA Championship and The Tradition.
A victory this week would complete a rare achievement, as he aims to win three consecutive senior major championships in the same season.
Leaderboard After Round One
Simon Griffiths, Freddie Jacobson, and George McNeill were one shot behind the leaders after each posted rounds of 68.
Defending champion Padraig Harrington was part of a large group tied at 69, remaining well within contention heading into the second round.
With three rounds still to play, the tournament remains wide open as players compete for one of the most prestigious titles on the PGA Tour Champions schedule.
