Six way tie at WA Open
Australasian PGA Tour | 2010 WA Open | Round Four | 28 Oct 2010
After a tough first round in blustery conditions at the Western Australian Golf Club, six players share the top spot on three-under at the conclusion of the first round of the John Hughes Geely NEXUS Risk Services WA Open.
Tied in the top spot are Rohan Blizard, Marcus Both, Steve Collins, Ashley Hall, Craig Hasthorpe and Stephen Leaney.
Six players are tied a further shot back at two-under in T7.
John Martino has finished the day as the highest ranked amateur at one-under in T13.
Amongst those at the top, and making his intentions very clear, is Victorian Ashley Hall who had an up-and-down round of five birdies and two bogeys.
“I came over (to WA) for the next two weeks really wanting to win one if not both events and I am pretty one-minded to do it,” said a confident and in-form Hall following the first round.
“I don’t mind it windy and rainy – I’m a Victorian and used to it. You just have to play smart. It allows the better players and better ball strikers to come out on top especially over four days if it is like this.”
“I haven’t played very well so the next couple of weeks is a bit of a focus and I need to make sure I keep my ranking up,” continued Hall who this year had conditional status on the European Challenge Tour but spent the majority of his time playing in Asia.
Also making an impression on the first day was West Australian Stephen Leaney who is looking to call on local knowledge to regain some momentum heading into the second round.
“When the greens are fast and it is windy it is difficult to pick the right clubs,” he said post round.
“I managed to make some good up and downs which kept the round going because I did not hit too many greens but chipped and putted very well.”
“I’ve got three consecutive tournaments coming up and it is nice to get some normality in my routine. This week and next week (WA PGA) is a great lead-up to the Masters.”
The second round of the John Hughes Geely NEXUS Risk Services WA Open will tee off tomorrow from 6.50am local Perth time.
