Augusta, GA …
American Charley Hoffman breezed his way to the largest first round lead at the Masters in 62 years all thanks to a remarkable seven under 65.
It was the biggest lead since Texan Jackie Burke Jnr lead by five shots in the 1955 Masters.
Hoffman, 40 produced an effort that included 10 birdies but after being level par through six holes the San Diego golfer played his last 11 holes in seven under and capped by four birdies in succession from the 14th.
Charley Hoffman leads by four shots with a seven under par 65 and the largest first round lead at the Masters since 1955.
“I hit it pretty solid in the wind and I was also able to make some solid 15 to 20 footers which was nice and that’s how I ended up shooting seven under par,” he said.
“I was a little bit lucky. Fortunate I put myself in spots to be able to make putts. Doesn’t mean you’re going to make them out here. I was able to make some longer putts, which you’re just trying to die it up there close to the hole, and they were able to go in.
“So I’m obviously very happy with the end result of 7‑under.”
Hoffman’s won four times on the Tour but with his last victory at the 2014 Valero Texas Open in San Antonio.
He made his Masters debut in 2011 and played again in 2015 when he was T9th while he was placed T29th a year ago.
Fellow American William McGirt was in second place while Lee Westwood, and runner-up a year ago, showed his liking for the difficult conditions to post a two under par 70.
And Westwood has an extra two million reasons to win a first Major as it is being reported he will collect a £2m windfall from a new clothing sponsor should he claim victory.
