Overnight leader Taylor Pendrith was spared the worst of the weather on Friday and is currently still in the lead by one shot at 10-under through six holes at the Shriners Children’s Open.
“I think it died down a little bit for us, but still some really strong gusts that you kind of had to time your putts,” said the Canadian. “Putting is really tough in the wind I thought,” he said. “Overall really hard day, and I know those guys in the morning had it a little harder.”
The start of play was delayed for four hours when gusts of wind approaching 50 mph caused safety concerns. Strong wind are still expected at least through half of Saturday.
Philippino Rico Hoey lies in second place at 10-under through seven holes after a colourful start to his second round with an eagle at the par-5 16th, two birdies and a double bogey at the par-4 12th.
Five players are tied in third place at 8-under. Among them was American Kurt Kitayama who impressively stayed bogey-free in gusts approaching 40 mph and closed with a 68.
Due to the high winds and out of an abundance of caution, spectators were not permitted on the grounds Friday. The last time a round on the PGA Tour was held without spectators was the final round of the 2021 FedEx St. Jude Championship at Liberty National Golf Club, which was played on Monday due to the impact of Tropical Storm Henri.
The second round was suspended due to darkness at 6:02 p.m. PT and will resume on Saturday at 7:15 a.m. PT.
