Reavie leads Fortinet Championship, struggling Rahm

World number one Jon Rahm’s Ryder Cup prep week didn’t go as planned, the weakened Spaniard with an upset stomach failed to outperform par in Fortinet Championship first round of the US PGA on the Silverado Resort course in Napa, Calif., leaving the lead to the American Chez Reavie.

“I didn’t have the mental clarity that I usually have“Said Rahm, tired after battling to finish second to American Patrick Cantlay in the US PGA Championship last week.”I had to fight, that’s probably why it wasn’t my best day on the greens, but again it’s like that“he added, predicting he would be back after a good meal and a night’s sleep.”Tiger Woods won a US Open with a broken knee so I’m OK“, he recalled.

Rahm made two bogeys and two birdies for a par score (72). The American Chez Reavie took the lead in the first round with a score of 7 under par (65). Reavie’s patience paid off as he bounced back from an early bogey on the 14th hole with birdies on the 16th and 17th. He then outdid himself on the indoor course, with six birdies including three in a row to complete his lap. “I thought I had to be patient, I had lots of opportunities to birdies, and that’s what I did“said Reavie.

“I was one over after six holes, I think. I was like ‘OK, stay patient, don’t rush’. Luckily I was able to make some birdies. “American Cameron Tringale and Canadian Adam Hadwin are just behind, one stroke, with scores of 6 under on par (66). Most of the world’s top golfers are out this week, resting or preparing for the Ryder Cup, a duel between the United States and Europe next week in Whistling Straits, Wisconsin.

Classification after the 1st round (par 72)

• 1. Chez Reavie (USA) -7 (65)
• 2. Cameron Tringale (USA) -6 (66)
• . Adam Hadwin (CAN) -6 (66)
• 4. Nate Lashley (USA) -5 (67)
• . Max Homa (USA) -5 (67)
• . Scott Stallings (USA) -5 (67)
• . Troy Merritt (USA) -5 (67)
• . Jason Dufner (USA) -5 (67)
• . Mito Pereira (CHI) -5 (67)