Justin Rose’s game may be in bloom in Florida but he was cut down to size after moving into a share of the lead on day two of the Honda Classic.
The Englishman rolled in a 14-foot birdie putt at the 18th in a second straight 66 to join American Tom Gillis sharing the lead on eight under par in the $US 5.7m event.
Rose was third in the event two years ago and shooting a course record equallying 64 on the final day in 2010.
Justin Rose hoping to add the Honda Classic to his 2010 Memorial success.
And while he’s delighted to be in contention to capture the event it was a question relating to events taking place 14 years ago at Royal Birkdale that Rose was reminded of after his round.
Rose teed-up in the 1998 Open Championship as an amateur and finished fourth to American Mark O’Meara,
It was his first Major appearance and while Rose has since contested 30 Majors his best finish since winning the Silver Medal for the Low Amateur was fifth in the 2003 U.S. Open and fifth also in the 2007 Masters.
Rose was reminded of his record in the Majors following today’s second round in Florida.
“Yeah, there was a spell where I felt that I was competing nicely in the majors,” he said
“In 2007 I had four top‑12s in that season, and I had a good run at the Masters. I was one back on the 71st hole. So I kind of had a sniff there.
“So I felt like I’ve had my chances. But at the same time, definitely a gap. Especially the last couple seasons. And this year I feel like my game is in a spot‑‑ I like the tougher tests to be honest with you. I think it suits me better than the 20‑under par weeks.
“That should couple up with doing well in majors. Hopefully I can show a bit of‑‑ hopefully I can back that thought process up this year.”
But of more importance to Rose this week is continuing his good form over the weekend.
“I’m really happy with a pair of 66s to open up things here is more than acceptable,” he said.
“So yeah, looking forward to the weekend really. I’ve played the course twice now, once with the calm conditions and then today showing a little bit of teeth as it did with the winds.
“And by all accounts I believe we are due to expect a little bit of wind on the weekend, which is what you sign up for here in South Florida.”
