Spring Invitational Round 1

The Jubilee Course proved a stern test despite tranquil conditions today at The Home of Golf. Temperatures in the high 50's coupled with a light breeze would normally mean a green light for low scoring but none of the 36 competitors in this year's Spring Invitational managed to better their handicap. Spangler's 36 point total held off strong opening rounds from Boston Woolley and Maverick Rudd. Two back nine birdies were the highlight of his scorecard and the young Utah native looks forward with great optimism to his first ever round on The Old Course tomorrow.

Back in October, Iona Stephen handed over The Claret Jug to Marcella's Ryan Halliday. He returned to St Andrews this week and made a solid start with 35 points. 

Several golfers from Greensboro, North Carolina are making their debut this year. Ben Graham (originally from Hertfordshire) notched up five birdies in a topsy turvy round before signing for 33 gross points. This proved enough to take 2nd spot in the scratch division. The aforementioned Boston Woolley snatched the opening day honours thanks to a stronger back nine - aided by a birdie 2 on the difficult 17th. 

A balmy day on The Old Course awaits tomorrow. Many of the young guns will be walking across the hallowed turf for the first time so the more experienced, seasoned campaigners will be looking to make a move through the field. 

A special thanks must go to Rusacks for a wonderful opening night dinner. The team in '18' went above and beyond by recreating "Funeral Potatoes" - a comforting taste of home for the Utah golfers in the field. Let's hope they can escape the three "Coffin" Bunkers on Hole 13 of The Old Lady tomorrow afternoon...