Hong Kong Open in mourning for tragic caddie
HONG KONG: Hong Kong Open golfers were in mourning on Thursday as they wore black ribbons in tribute to a caddie who collapsed this week during a Dubai tournament.
Players were also remembering Spanish great Seve Ballesteros’ former caddie who passed away last week. Defending champion Justin Rose was among those with ribbons pinned to their clothing in memory of Austrian caddie Max Zechmann — who collapsed on Wednesday at the Dubai Ladies Masters and later died — and Argentine Pedro Ramseyer, who caddied for the late Ballesteros.
American Paul Peterson, who finished the first day at joint third at four under par despite recovering from sinus surgery, said: “It’s sad for the caddies and the friendships that they have created; to have two guys go in two weeks is really sad.”
And England’s Ian Poulter, who said he had often played with Zechmann, earlier tweeted: “Very sad to see the passing of another caddie. Done many rounds with Big Max. #RIP thoughts go out to his family and friends.”
The opening round of the $2 million tournament teed off in bright sunshine with Rose ending the day on par.
Leading the field was Rafa Cabrera Bello, who ended a sparkling round with an eagle after a stunning shot from the fairway dropped straight into the 10th hole.
The Spaniard, who made his Ryder Cup debut this year, ended the day with a six under par round of 64. — AFP