Patrick Cantlay is a busy man.
Not only is he one of the top-ranked golfers in the world, he also serves as the Player Director for the PGA Tour Policy Committee.
As a result, he has been busy in recent weeks negotiating with the Strategic Sports Group (SSG). But with that $3 billion contract in place, Cantlay can finally focus on Thursday’s game at Spyglass Hill.
“You have to compartmentalize. You have to be as focused as possible,” Cantlay explained.
“It can be a little difficult when there are distractions. But I’m determined to do my best to focus on the task at hand, and with today’s Spyglass I think I did that well.” think.”
In fact, Cantlay shot an 8-under 64 at Spyglass Hill on Thursday and would have taken a share of the lead if not for Thomas Detrie’s impressive finish.
Sadly, Detrie is at 9 under, meaning Cantlay will start Friday’s round one stroke behind the leader.
“We didn’t get off to the best start.” [Thursday]” Cantlay said of the round.
“I chipped in on the 13th. I missed a lot of greens from the start. My short game was really sharp today, so I made a lot of mid-range putts to keep the momentum going throughout the round. ”
Cantlay got the round off to a strong start by chipping in on the par-4 13th hole. He then made four birdies in a row and climbed to the top of the leaderboard.
He birdied three of the last five holes and shot a 64 for a good result.
Considering we have a very strong field this week, opening with a solid round is essential. Jordan Spieth even said, “It feels like a major championship.”
“I think it’s good that the top players get together more often,” Cantlay said.
“This event has the strongest field we’ve had in years, and I think that’s great. I think that’s what the fans want to see. I really hope this deal comes to fruition. [with SSG] I think they’ve suffered a lot over the past few years, so it’s made a really good change for the fans. I hope that the products will continue to get better. ”
So far with the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the product has been great. The leaderboard is full of top players, and Cantlay, despite wearing multiple hats, is squarely in the mix.
Jack Mirko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through.Be sure to check it out @_PlayingThrough Cover more golf. You can follow him on Twitter @jack_milko In the same way.
