Local knowledge was key during the opening round of the 101st Indiana Open Championship. Held at the Donald Ross Course at French Lick Resort, it was Anthony Bradley, French Lick, and Jeff Howerton, Jasper, who proved that knowing the course was a major advantage.
Bradley and Howerton posted 18-hole totals of 3-under-par, 67 and lead by one shot heading into round two.
Bradley, an Assistant Professional at Pete Dye Golf Course just up the road, says he tries to play at the Ross Course at least once a week, and more lately in preparation.
“Leading up to the event I played as much as I possibly could up here,” Bradley said. “It is definitely a second shot golf course and you have to place the ball in the right segment of the green to have a look at birdie. Knowing the greens is definitely an advantage.”
Bradley carded five birdies during today’s round, coming on holes 2, 3, 8, 15 and 17.
“I felt like I hit the ball solid all day,” Bradley said. “I got off to a good start, which jumpstarted my round. I also had a couple of tap-in birdies, which are always nice.”
In 2013, Bradley finished in the top ten at the State Open at Otter Creek GC in Columbus. He looks for his first win this week.
“I know what it feels like to be near the top of the leaderboard,” Bradley says. “As cliché as it sounds, I just hope to stay in the moment and commit to all of my decisions on the course.”
Howerton also looks for his first State Open win. Getting off to a fast start this afternoon, Howerton posted 32 on his opening nine holes. He carded seven birdies in total, coming on holes 3, 5, 8, 10, 14, 16 and 18.
“I played from the right spots today, but it was definitely still a lot of work,” Howerton said. “I really had to watch where t
