Australian golfer Scott Hend has made a remarkable impression once again on the PGA Tour Champions by shooting an impressive 7-under-par 66, securing the lead after the first round of the Trophy Hassan II held on Thursday in Rabat, Morocco. Hend's performance was characterized by a strong front nine at the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, where he dazzled spectators with four consecutive birdies, starting from the very first hole. He continued his impressive play on the back nine, adding three more birdies to his tally, and will head into the second round with a narrow one-shot advantage over fellow competitor Tommy Gainey.
At 52 years old, Hend is carving out a prominent niche for himself on the senior golf circuit. With victories spanning continents, including titles on the European and Asian tours, as well as in Canada and his homeland Australia, he has claimed three championships since joining the European Senior Tour. His recent participation in the senior majors has also proven fruitful; he tied for third at the Senior PGA Championship and finished as the runner-up at the Regions Tradition, showcasing his competitive edge against some of the best in the game.
Hend expressed his enthusiasm for the course in Morocco, noting its familiar characteristics that remind him of his experiences in New South Wales and Queensland, where he owns a home. He remarked on how the trees and grass align with his preferences, enhancing his overall enjoyment of the game.
Tommy Gainey, known as "Two Gloves," also had a commendable performance, registering seven birdies and remaining bogey-free until the final hole, where he recorded a 6 on the par-5 18th. Gainey is in a solid position to pursue his second title on the PGA Tour Champions, just a week after English golfer Aaron Rai, another player who wears gloves on both hands, clinched the PGA Championship. Gainey acknowledged some adjustments he had to make with his new irons, which he was using in tournament play for just the second time, yet he managed to find success on the course.
In the ranks, Australia's Cameron Percy is positioned in third place with a score of 5-under 68, while Matt Gogel holds the fourth spot with a score of 4-under 69. Conversely, defending champion Miguel Angel Jimenez from Spain struggled, finishing with a 4-over 77. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Hend as he aims for a significant victory on the Champions Tour.
As reported by fieldlevelmedia.com.
