Graeme McDowell is five shots behind leader Grayson Murray in Texas Open

Grayson Murray took the early lead with a round of 67 in the first round of the Valero Texas Open.

Graeme McDowell is five shots behind leader Grayson Murray in Texas Open

Grayson Murray took the early lead with a round of 67 in the first round of the Valero Texas Open.

On level par, Graeme McDowell is five shots behind the leader having recovered on the 18th with a bogey-bogey-birdie finish in San Antonio.

He is in a group at 72, which includes defending champion Kevin Chappell

The American ended day one five-under, putting him one shot ahead of compatriots Chesson Hadley, Billy Horschel, Ryan Moore, Keegan Bradley and Matt Atkins.

The 24-year-old shot three birdies on the front nine of the San Antonio course, only faltering on the par-three seventh hole with a double-bogey.

But Murray rallied to hole four more birdies on the back nine and take the top spot on the leaderboard.

Of the five players making up the chasing pack with a round of 68, only Horschel and Moore hit a bogey-free round on the AT&T Oaks Course.

Two-time Valero Texas Open winner Zach Johnson finished on two-under 70 after striking a 12ft eagle putt on the par-five 14th hole and three straight birdies on the last holes.

Sergio Garcia, returning to the tournament for the first time in eight years and after a disappointing title defence at the Masters, carded two-under 74, while Adam Scott, who is aiming to hold on to his position of world number 59 to make the US Open next month, finished on 75 after a failing to make a single birdie.

more courts articles

Woman who stalked Harry Styles jailed and banned from his performances Woman who stalked Harry Styles jailed and banned from his performances
Prince Harry may be forced to settle claim against Sun publisher due to legal costs Prince Harry may be forced to settle claim against Sun publisher due to legal costs
Football fan given banning order after mocking Munich air disaster Football fan given banning order after mocking Munich air disaster

More in this section

European 2025 Ryder Cup Vice Captain Announcement Thomas Bjørn appointed Vice Captain for Europe's Ryder Cup defence
Shane Lowry backs Ludvig Aberg to become World Number One Shane Lowry backs Ludvig Aberg to become World Number One
The Masters - Final Round Scottie Scheffler hails influence of English putting guru after Masters win
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up

Ireland's Top 10 Hidden Gems

Ten of the best golf courses in Ireland that too few people know about.

Read Here
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited