Opening with 7-under 63s – Richard Green and Rob Labritz immediately shook up the Rogers Charity Classic on Friday in Calgary, securing a share of the lead. A fireworks display of a start that visibly heats up the PGA Tour Champions and puts significant pressure on the competition. Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club provided the perfect stage for this early showdown.
Richard Green, the defending champion, delivered a top-tier performance. His round was not only bogey-free but also studded with five birdies and a sensational eagle on the par-5 18th hole, allowing him to leap to the top. A testament to why he's here as the defending champion.
Labritz Dances to the Top
Rob Labritz posted an equally impressive 63. With a long birdie putt on the final hole, he drew even with Green, underscoring his ambitions. Labritz, who started on the 10th hole, collected four birdies on his first nine holes before adding three more birdies on holes one through nine. This guy knows how to score – and with style!
The Chasers Are Already Lurking
However, the two leaders shouldn't get too comfortable. The field is tightly packed, and the pursuers are lurking. Miguel Ángel Jiménez posted a very strong 64 and is just one shot back. Right behind him, with 65s, an armada of top players is forming, including Michael Allen, Jason Caron, Thongchai Jaidee, Ryan Armour, Jerry Kelly, and Michael Block. Top Canadian Mike Weir also held his own with a 3-under. This early showdown promises a true golf thriller this weekend, where anything can still happen.
