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Unexpectedly, the traditionally more difficult Reynolds Landing course played easier on Thursday. (Photo: The PGA of America)

Scores in first round contrary to what officials expected

By Josh Cagliani, PGA.com Contributor

GREENSBORO, Ga. -- The first round of the 41st PGA Professional National Championship completed play Thursday at Reynolds Plantation's Great Waters and Reynolds Landing courses. After the first round, the results were contrary to what most people expected. The lower rounds came from the traditionally more difficult Reynolds Landing, while players seemed to find more trouble at the Great Waters course.

The majority of the low first-round scores came from Reynolds Landing. In fact, of the nine players who finished the day at 4 under par or better, seven of them played Reynolds Landing. Throughout the day, Reynolds Landing played almost a full shot easier with an average score of 74.87, while Great Waters came in at 75.57. Both courses played to a par of 72.

Most of the local players and Reynolds Plantation golf officials stated that Reynolds Landing is typically the more difficult course.

"I definitely am surprised that the scores were lower today at Reynolds Landing," said Bob Mauragas, the vice president of golf operations at Reynolds Plantation. "I think our entire staff thought Reynolds Landing would play more difficult. But after seeing the statistics coming in from the Unisys scoring system, the back nine at Great Waters and those shots that you have to hit over Lake Oconee were making these guys shake a little bit."

Still, the players were reluctant to state that either course offered much of a break.

"I was happy to get this course out of the way, because this one is a monster for me," said Scott Hebert, PGA Head Professional at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa in Acme, Mich., who shot a 5-under par 67, of the Reynolds Landing layout. "To be able to do what I did today really gave me a boost."

On paper the two courses don't seem to be much different, especially in terms of yardage. From the tees, Reynolds Landing measured 6,926 yards and Great Waters played slightly longer than that at 7,043 yards.

But on this day, the Great Waters course, which is noted for showcasing many scenic holes that border Lake Oconee, proved to be anything but serene. Players expect the same stern test for the second round from both courses. But they also say that the test is fair, well-maintained and, above all, gorgeous.

"It's a very nice golf course, and it's hard to get mad when you're looking at this kind of atmosphere," Eric Dugas, PGA Assistant Professional at Old Sandwich Golf Club in Plymouth, Mass., said of Great Waters.

Dugas and the others who played Thursday's round at Great Waters will get their chance at Reynolds Landing on Friday, and vice-versa. When the players switch courses for the second round, the real contenders will begin to step to the forefront heading into the weekend.