Pacific Palisades, CA – Genesis Invitational teeing off with a great first day seeing the morning groups take off with low scores like rabbits. The sunny skies with a slight breeze played even more perfect for the second wave of golfers to score just as low.
Joaquin Niemann stands on top of the leaderboard with 63 (-8) which ties for lowest opening rounds score here at the Genesis. He took advantage of all three par 5 by birding them having 9 birdies during his open round.
“I hit the ball great off the tee. My iron play, I was hitting it really close so that makes it a lot easier,” said Niemann “I think it’s got to be one of my best days on the golf course, especially in a place like this with this history.”
The Genesis Invitational defending champion and San Fernando Valley native Max Homa, World No. 9 Scottie Scheffler, World No. 14 Jordan Spieth and Cameron Young (T2; 5-under 66), and World No. 2 Collin Morikawa, World No. 8 Justin Thomas and C.T. Pan (T6; 4-under 67).
Spieth is no stranger to being at the top of the leaderboards. Will this be the week that he makes a move to hoist a trophy again. During his opening round the back nine is where did most of his scoring with 5 birdies.
“I was able to kind of putt pretty confidently from there. I’ve been striking the ball really well,” said Spieth, “I feel like I can hit any shot if it
presents itself fearlessly.”
The great weather should allow for both groups morning and afternoon to take aim at few flags to score low. The par 5’s here at Riviera are great holes to take advantage of.
Tournament host Tiger Woods will be lurking in the shadows viewing this golf making a Tiger sighting a fan surprise.
“The golf course is in perfect shape. The course superintendent has done a fantastic job of getting this thing just right,” said Tiger.
This year Charlie Sifford Memorial exemption recipient Aaron Beverly teed off on first tee 100! Beverly living a dream being able to swing his clubs on tour this week. After his first 7 holes it was just a normal day being (-1) under before the nerves took over with a 8 stroke swing on the 8th.
Charlie Sifford would have turned 100. The tournament’s has a history of supporting diversity in the game and this week they’re honoring Charlie with the 100 designation on the first hole.
Now lets see who will be the leader after 36 holes…
