Mark Hensby made an impressive start at the US Senior Open in Colorado, challenging the typical strategy of pars leading to victory in USGA championships. On the first day, only 17 players finished under par, with Hensby sharing the lead with Padraig Harrington after a round of 3-under 67. His performance was marked by just three pars and a series of birdies and bogeys.
Among the Australasian competitors, Steven Alker joined Hensby in red figures with a score of 69. Hensby’s opening nine holes were notable for a 6-under 30, but he encountered difficulties on the back nine, recording five bogeys for a total of 3-over 37.
“Obviously I felt like I left some out there,” said Hensby. “It’s just frustrating. I played like s*** the back nine. What else can you say?”
Hensby has shown inconsistency throughout his career: “But I’ve never been a very consistent player. I’m hot or cold, and that kind of sucks.”
Despite these challenges, Hensby began strong with three consecutive birdies before encountering his first bogey at hole four. He recovered with further birdies on holes five and six and added more at eight and nine.
The Australian golfer has achieved victories on various tours including Korn Ferry Tour, PGA TOUR, and PGA TOUR Champions. Recently he finished within the top 25 in eight consecutive events.
“I’ve been playing decent all year,” said Hensby about his performance this season.
Steven Alker managed to maintain par through every hole on his back nine after losing to Miguel Angel Jimenez in a playoff last week at Kaulig Companies Championship.
In addition to their scores, Greg Chalmers concluded even par alongside Rod Pampling despite dropping two shots near his finish.
Round one saw Mark Hensby tied for first place at -3 while Steven Alker stood tenth at -1 among others from Australasia who participated in this tournament.
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