Associated Press1 Minute Read
JOHANNESBURG — South African golfer Thriston Lawrence made an exceptional start at the Joburg Open, shooting 8-under 62 on Thursday to take a three-shot lead after the first round of the European tour’s season-opening event.
The 2024 season kicked off just four days after the 2023 one concluded in Dubai, and the No. 90-ranked Lawrence continued his impressive performance from the World Tour Championship, where he finished tied for fifth place.
Lawrence, who previously won the Joburg Open by four strokes in Nov 2021 and has clinched three more titles since, birdied five of his first six holes to quickly tie for first place with clubhouse leader and compatriot Nikhol Rama (65), a player ranked No. 1,214.
He then added more birdies at Nos. 13 and 14 before rolling in a putt from 10 feet at the last to pick up another shot in a bogey-free round at Houghton Golf Club.
Defending champion Dan Bradbury shot 66 and was among ten players tied for third place.
The event marks the beginning of three consecutive tournaments in South Africa co-sanctioned with the country’s Sunshine Tour.
Additionally, the top three players who make the cut and are not already exempt will earn three places in the Open Championship.
Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.
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