Horsfield glad to put back issues behind him as he shines in Kenya
ENGLAND’S Sam Horsfield was pleased with his return from injury after he finished the opening round of the Magical Kenya Open a shot behind leader Benjamin Hebert.
Horsfield, 24, enjoyed a breakthrough season with two victories on the European Tour in 2020 but then suffered a back injury towards the end of the campaign.
There were no signs of rust as a six-under 65 at Karen Country Club put Horsfield in a seven-way tie for second in Nairobi.
“I tore a disc in my back in Cyprus at the end of last year,” he said.
“Then I was just getting treatment and stuff like that and I didn’t feel like I was ready for the Middle East (swing).
“It’s nice to be back out here with the boys competing.”
France’s Hebert, looking for
a first European Tour win in his 218th event, took sole possession of the lead when he birdied the 18th late in the day to sign for a 64.
“It was a fantastic day,” said Hebert.
“I played very solid all day long. It’s been a long time since it has been like this.
“I played well all day, so I’m very happy.”
Hebert’s compatriot Raphael Jacquelin was among those tied for second on six under, alongside Horsfield, Poland’s Adrian Meronk, German Bernd Ritthammer, Finland’s Kalle Samooja and Scottish pair Calum Hill and Connor Syme.
■ Australia’s Matt Jones is three shots clear of the field after shooting a brilliant nine-under-par 61 at the first round of the Honda Classic at Palm Beach in Florida.
But after his course record score, modest Jones was playing down the achievement, telling reporters: “I play golf for a living – I mean, I should be able to shoot a good golf score occasionally!”
American pair Russell Henley and Aaron Wise are three shots adrift in second place, with two more home players, Kevin Chappell and Scott Harrington next on five under.
Ireland’s Shane Lowry is the highest ranked European (67) with Ian Poulter one over (71).